Reasons for Extractions
There are a number of different reasons that you might require a tooth extraction.| • | Severe tooth decay. If your tooth has decayed beyond repair, it may need to come out. |
| • | Gum disease. When gum disease has progressed to periodontitis, infection has traveled from your gums into your teeth and your jawbone. In some instances, your jawbone loses its integrity, and is no longer able to hold your teeth in place. |
| • | Severe fractures. Many fractures can be fixed with a crown, which can strengthen the tooth. However, if the break extends below the gum line, a crown won't work well. |
| • | Not enough space. Your mouth may be crowded, and therefore some teeth may need to be pulled to make room. You may also need teeth removed in preparation for any oral specialist work you require. |
| • | Impacted teeth. When your teeth don't emerge as they should, or grow into other teeth, they are considered impacted. This frequently happens with wisdom teeth. If impacted teeth cause problems, they are usually removed. |
Simple Extraction
The first type of extraction is a simple extraction. These are performed on teeth that are visible. Only a local anesthetic is required. Teeth are typically removed with the use of forceps. The tooth is grasped and gentled wiggled back and forth until the tooth loosens out of the bone and can be pulled free.Surgical Extraction
The second type of extraction is a surgical extraction. This type of extraction is performed when the tooth is not easily accessible. It may be trapped below the gum line, or the tooth has broken below the gums. The gums often need to be cut in order to reach the tooth. Bone may even need to be removed to get the entire tooth, which sometimes has to be broken into several pieces to successfully remove it. General anesthesia is usually used for a surgical extraction, although a local can be used as well.No matter if you have a simple or a surgical extraction, proper care should be taken after the procedure. Be sure to follow your dentist's instructions in order to prevent infection or other complications.
Please contact us if you have any questions about dental extractions.
