There are several reasons why you may need to see a dentist to get a tooth extracted. It could be related to deep decay, advanced periodontal disease, injury, or impact. There are two categories of tooth extractions – surgical and simple. If your dentist believes there’s a way to save your natural tooth from extraction, they will suggest treatment options. For instance, when the pulp inside the tooth is infected, your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment. When an extraction seems imminent, your family dentist in Springfield will explain what to expect from the procedure. Here’s an overview of the tooth extraction process at a glance.
When is a tooth extraction necessary?
There are several reasons why tooth extraction may seem like the only solution. If you have an extra tooth or wisdom teeth that is impacted, your dentist may recommend removing the same. Advanced periodontal disease can often cause the tooth roots to get loose, and an extraction is the only way out. At times, a patient may need to get a tooth extracted before orthodontic treatment. Fractured, injured, or malformed teeth are also removed from time to time. If decay is deep and cannot be fixed with root canal therapy, your dentist will have to remove the tooth.
What is the procedure like?
Your dentist will take x-rays of your teeth/tooth and plan the tooth extraction procedure with you. They will usually use local anesthesia before the extraction, and therefore, you may feel some pressure but no discomfort or pain. If the tooth is impacted or is located in a position where a simple extraction cannot be done, the dentist may have to break the said tooth in parts and remove it through surgery. Otherwise, the process is relatively simple, where the dentist will use forceps to loosen the tooth and gum tissues surrounding it. They will then remove the tooth and pack the socket with gauze to prevent bleeding. Although rare, stitches are often required after tooth extraction.
How can I replace the missing tooth?
Your best bet is to talk to your dentist about restorative treatments, which can include dentures, bridges, and dental implants. Each of these options has a few pros and cons, and you can expect the dentist to share all details so that you can make an informed choice.
Do not wait for long after tooth extraction as you may lose bone mass, which can create issues for getting the replacement tooth.
