Tooth Extraction
Comfortable Removal of Damaged or Infected Teeth
Many people will need a tooth extraction at some point in their lives. When decay, gum disease, or facial injuries damage teeth, they can sometimes be repaired and saved. In other cases, the only way to prevent further problems is to remove the tooth completely. Periodontists are experts at safely and effectively extracting teeth. In addition to safely removing them, our periodontists can replace the missing teeth with dental implants.
Why Should I Have a Tooth Extracted?
When treating dental problems, every effort is made to save the natural tooth. Sometimes it is impossible to save a tooth without risking additional damage to surrounding teeth and structures. Teeth that are severely infected may need to be removed to prevent the infection from spreading or causing other problems. In some cases, extraction is the most effective way to eliminate the damage or infection and protect the other teeth and gums. The most common reasons for needing a tooth pulled out include:
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Severe tooth decay. When restorative procedures, such as fillings and root canals, cannot save a tooth, an extraction is usually necessary to preserve your oral health. The infected tissue can reach deep into the roots of the tooth around nerves and blood vessels, making it easy for infection to spread to other tissues.
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Gum disease. Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease can cause severe tooth decay, tooth loosening, and other problems. Gum disease can cause the bone beneath the gums to become weaker, which leads to tooth loosening. Eventually, the affected tooth or teeth may need to be extracted.
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Dental crowding. Sometimes the teeth become crowded together because extra teeth develop in the mouth. Baby teeth that do not fall out in time can also cause problems. In these cases, extractions may clear the way for the adult teeth to grow into their natural positions.
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Tooth injuries. Most of the time, a cracked or chipped tooth is simple to repair. In some cases, when a tooth is severely damaged, there is no way to repair the tooth without potentially causing future complications. In these cases, most dental professionals will recommend an extraction and possibly a dental implant replacement.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?
You will meet your periodontist during the consultation. We may take 3D scans of your mouth and face, and will discuss your options for anesthesia and sedation prior to treatment. Simple tooth extractions are completed fairly quickly, often only requiring local anesthesia. In some cases, we can combine the consultation appointment with the extraction procedure in a single visit.
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Your periodontist will administer the chosen anesthetic and remove the tooth using forceps. We will place gauze in your mouth to control bleeding and send you home with detailed instructions for post-operative care. Follow these instructions closely so that your extraction site heals properly and you avoid dry socket, which is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot inside the tooth socket becomes dislodged.
Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Implants
If you have enough jaw bone, you may be able to receive a dental implant immediately after extraction. These types of implants are called same-day dental implants. By inserting them right after pulling a tooth, you save money, time, and lessen your number of surgical visits. This also allows you to leave our office without a missing tooth.
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If you do not plan on replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant right away, your periodontist may place a bone graft into the empty tooth socket. The grafting material preserves the size and shape of the socket, making for easier dental implant placement in the future.
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When a tooth is missing, the jaw bone beneath it deteriorates over time due to lack of stimulation. We recommend replacing any missing teeth with dental implants, as their posts mimic natural teeth roots and prevent jaw bone loss. Ask us about dental implants during the consultation to learn more about your tooth replacement options.
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Your periodontist will also explain any post-operative care instructions before your procedure. Sometimes, infected or damaged teeth can be painful, and many patients feel relieved after finally having their extraction performed.