Tooth Extraction: A Guide to Oral Health Preservation

Tooth extraction is always a last resort when other restorative procedures fail to save the tooth. There are several reasons that require extraction that are determined by your dentist. Tooth extraction can involve a single tooth or multiple teeth. 

A dentist in Leduc, Alberta, is well-equipped and trained in tooth extractions with minimal trauma to the patient. The most important goal of tooth extractions is the elimination of pain and preventing damage to the other teeth.

An insight into tooth extractions 

A tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves the complete removal of a tooth from its socket. Extractions can involve a single tooth or multiple teeth, depending on your individual case. This procedure aims to eliminate bacteria and provide relief from pain, thereby improving your overall oral health.

Indications for tooth extractions

Tooth extractions are common dental procedures indicated when other tooth-preserving methods (dental fillings or root canal therapy) fail to provide relief.

Your dentist will recommend tooth extractions for the following reasons:

  • Deep extensive tooth decay
    • The most common reason for extraction is decay involving the pulp that is beyond repair.
  • Extra teeth
    • Retained deciduous or baby teeth may lead to alignment issues if not shed on time. Extra teeth may take up more space in the arch.
  • Severe periodontal disease
    • Periodontal disease can lead to erosion of the gums and underlying jawbone, which can no longer hold the tooth securely in place. Bone loss can lead to tooth mobility with minimal chance of tooth restoration.
  • Orthodontic braces
    • Braces require space to align the teeth in proper alignment. Extraction is needed if there is no natural space left.
  • Fractured teeth 
    • Fractured or injured teeth may require extractions if root canal therapy to restore the teeth is impossible.

The procedure involved in tooth extraction

Tooth extraction procedures may differ based on your individual condition. 

Simple extraction

  • Your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the tooth. This minimizes pain and discomfort during the procedure.
  • Special dental forceps are used to first loosen the tooth by rotatory movements.
  • Finally, the tooth is carefully pulled out of the socket.

Complex extraction

  • This type of extraction is recommended for unerupted or inaccessible teeth (wisdom teeth).
  • Once the anesthesia is administered, your dentist will make an incision (cut) on the gums to access the tooth.
  • If required, the bone is drilled to access the embedded tooth.
  • Sometimes, your dentist may even section the tooth and remove it part by part.
  • This procedure may require suturing.

Bottom line 

Tooth extarctions can be scary. The thought of needles and instruments can be daunting. But it may be the only option to safeguard the integrity of your oral cavity.

Comments are closed.