What Are Tooth Extractions?
Extractions are done as a way to preserve your oral health and remove problematic teeth. In some cases, you may need to have teeth removed because of advanced gum disease. In other cases, you'll need an extraction because you have an impacted wisdom tooth. We always perform extractions in our office in a safe, comfortable and relaxed manner at your own convenience.
Why Are Tooth Extractions Needed?
Extractions are often performed when there is no other way to save a tooth. Some teeth are simply a risk to your oral and overall health, so it's best to remove them before they're allowed to cause issues with shifting, infection and intra-oral damage. Some of the reasons you may want or need an extraction include:
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Loose or severely decayed teeth
- Teeth that are cracked or broken below the gum line
- Stubborn baby teeth
- You're looking to avoid having additional treatment done
Who is a Candidate for Tooth Extractions?
With the help of an examination, we can determine if you might need an extraction. Most patients who need an extraction can and should have the procedure done. Leaving a problem tooth intact can cause issues down the road with infections and abscesses. We will take x-rays to help in further identifying the need for an extraction.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?
We first provide you with anesthetic or sedation of your choosing. We can discuss our sedation options with you during your consultation. Once you're comfortable, we will loosen and remove the tooth. We may place sutures if they are needed to close the gums. We have you bite down on gauze to stop the bleeding. You should be brought home by a friend or relative if general sedation has been used. We provide our patients with important aftercare instructions that must be followed.