When Is A Tooth Extraction Performed?

A tooth extraction is sometimes necessary to help preserve your oral health as well as the appearance of your smile.

In this blog, the dentists and oral surgeons at Dental365 in New York explain when a tooth extraction may be necessary.

What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is having a tooth removed from its socket in the bone by a dentist.

When is a tooth extraction performed?

A dentist will try to save a tooth whenever possible. Sometimes, however, a tooth will need to be removed for one of the following reasons:

• Damage – If decay or trauma due to an accident is too severe to save the tooth, it may need to be extracted. This can occur if the decay or damage reaches the pulp of the tooth (the center that’s filled with nerves and blood vessels) and can’t be adequately helped with antibiotics or a root canal.
• Crowding – Your mouth may not have enough room to accommodate wisdom teeth, so they may need to be extracted. You may also need an extraction if you’re getting braces in order to create room for the teeth that are being moved into the correct position.
• Infection – You may develop an infection in a tooth if your immune system is compromised by radiation or an organ transplant.
• Blockages – You may have extra teeth or baby teeth that block other teeth from coming in.
• Gum disease – Advanced gum disease can cause the bone surrounding your teeth to deteriorate and make your teeth become loose.

What is involved with a tooth extraction?

Tooth extractions can be performed by both dentists and oral surgeons. Your doctor will take an X-ray in order to determine the best way to extract the tooth and will also go over your medical and dental history with you, including the medications and supplements you take.

You may be given antibiotics to take before and after surgery, depending on your doctor’s preference and your individual needs. In addition, your doctor will give you a local anesthetic, or, in some cases, a general anesthetic, to help prevent pain.

After your dentist or oral surgeon removes the tooth, a blood clot will often form in the socket. He or she may place a gauze pad in the area to help stop the bleeding or may use stitches that dissolve on their own to close the gum edges.

What are the different types of tooth extraction?

There are two types of extraction:

• Simple – This type of procedure can be performed on a tooth that can be seen. The dentist uses an instrument to loosen the tooth and then utilizes forceps to remove it.
• Surgical – This type is needed if a tooth has broken off at the gum line or has not yet erupted. An oral surgeon makes a small incision in your gum that allows him or her to remove your tooth.

Why should you go to Dental365?

Dental365 offers the latest in dental technology and have designed each of our 14 convenient locations to offer an extremely comfortable patient experience. Our dentists, oral surgeons, and other specialists were trained at the best dental schools and hospitals. And for your convenience, our offices are open seven days a week, with or without an appointment.

If you need regular dental care or more specialized care such as a tooth extraction, contact Dental365 today, or stop by one of our New York locations.