What exactly is a Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction refers to a procedure that fully removes one or more of your natural teeth. Extractions are often done when no other procedure is available to help save a tooth. Oftentimes, a tooth needs to be extracted because it is severely decayed, broken or is loose due to trauma or periodontal disease. You may need to have wisdom teeth extracted if they post a problem to your dental health.

Why would you need a Tooth Extraction?

We do everything that we can to save your natural teeth. However, you are in complete control over your dental health. Some patients have no other choice but to have a tooth extracted and others want to have a tooth extracted because they do not want to go through additional work and treatment. Some of the most common reasons to have a tooth fully extracted include:

• The tooth has become severely decayed
• The tooth is loose due to trauma or gum disease
• The tooth has completely broken or fractured
• The tooth has cracked underneath the gum line
• The tooth may become a problem if left in (wisdom teeth)

What are the benefits of a Tooth Extraction?

If the tooth is causing you pain, removing it completely can get rid of this discomfort. In some cases, teeth are removed because they may become a problem in the future, as you’ll find with wisdom teeth. Extractions are done easily, safely and gently in our office. With proper post-operative care, the extraction site will heal quickly and evenly.

What is the procedure like for a Tooth Extraction?

Before having the tooth removed, you’ll come in for a consultation. We will give you options to help save the tooth, if this is a possibility for you. You will then receive anesthesia to make the surgery more comfortable. The tooth is then removed completely using a series of tools and techniques. If sutures are needed, they will be done at this time. You’ll be instructed to bite down on a piece of gauze or cotton to stop the bleeding. You will receive important post-op instructions on how to care for the extraction site and promote optimal healing.

If you think you might need to have a tooth extracted, we will be more than happy to answer your questions and get you in for an appointment.