Tooth Extraction
What is a tooth extraction?
Extractions are typically done as a way to help improve your oral health. While we take every step necessary to preserve your smile, there may come a time when a specific tooth is beyond the point of being saved. We always perform extractions in a comfortable, safe manner. We are here to help answer your questions regarding aftercare and what to expect during the procedure itself.
Why would a tooth extraction be needed?
We can perform extractions on both our adult and pediatric patients. You might need an extraction if a tooth has been severely damaged or compromised. It’s not uncommon for patients who have gum disease to need remaining teeth removed before a denture can be fitted to their mouth. Children, teens and young adults may need to have baby teeth or wisdom teeth removed to prevent future dental problems.
What makes someone a candidate for a tooth extraction?
To decipher if a full extraction is needed, we will examine your smile and take necessary x-rays. If you need to have a tooth removed, it is crucial to consider coming in for treatment to prevent further problems from happening. If possible, we will recommend other options to try to save the tooth. Many patients request that an extraction be done to prevent the need for more invasive treatments.
What happens during the tooth extraction process?
We’ll start by administering a local anesthetic that numbs the area where the affected tooth is located. We then work to remove the actual tooth using specialized instruments that both loosen and lift the tooth. We may need to place sutures if the gums would benefit from being closed. You will be instructed to bite down on some gauze to stop any bleeding before leaving the office. You’ll be provided with aftercare instructions to ensure that the surgical site heals properly over the course of the next few days.
If you would like to learn more about extractions and how they’re performed, call us today so that one of our staff members can further assist you.