Extractions

Why would I need an extraction, I want to keep my tooth?

Nothing compares to what you were born with and so we do everything we can to save a tooth. However, depending upon the severity of periodontal disease, level of tooth decay, infection or trauma, an extraction may be the only solution. Its a common dental procedure using a gentle surgical technique. The patient is sedated either with a local or general anesthetic, and after determining the area is ready, a small dental device is used to extract the tooth. When the tooth is pulled, a blood clot will usually form in the socket. In some cases the open socket is gently packed with layers of an absorbing collagen dressing (unless you've opted for an Implant), and then sutured to close the open socket. In many cases this procedure is completed relatively within minutes.

At this point, you can discuss with your dentist the options of replacing your lost tooth with a Bridge or an Implant. In the event of an implant, it will be inserted at the time of the extraction. This is called an "Immediate Implant"

Healing of the resulting extraction socket normally occurs uneventfully. After treatment, proper care of the area will affect the healing process. Smoking and allowing food particles to pack into the socket should be avoided; in addition, it is important to take any medication that the dentist prescribes. Eventually, new bone and gum tissue will grow into the gap left by the extraction. By following a few simple guidelines, your mouth will be back to normal in just a few days.

Bleeding is a typical part of the healing process. After the procedure a gauze pad will be placed in the extraction site and you should leave it in your mouth for 30 to 45 minutes. If bleeding continues after removing the gauze, place a fresh damp gauze pad on the area. Avoid using mouthwash or smoking for the next few days and only gently rinse your mouth. Continue to brush and floss as you normally do to maintain good oral hygiene, but avoid the teeth next to the healing tooth socket. Should you experience heaving, bleeding or nausea after the procedure, contact your dentist.

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are a 3rd set of molars in the back of the mouth that generally arrive between the ages of 15 and 17. Sometimes they're healthy and well positioned, but frequently they can cause problems. For example, the wisdom tooth, or teeth, may not fully erupt and an opening develops allowing bacteria to enter resulting in an infection causing illness, inflammation and pain. The most common reason people choose to remove their wisdom teeth is that their mouth is too small for these teeth to erupt normally behind the second molar into a good position. Your dentist may recommend they be extracted even before problems develop. The best time to remove wisdom teeth are between the ages of 16 and 19, before the roots have a chance to become firmly anchored in your jaw and the less likely you would experience complications with the extraction. The older we get, the denser our jawbones become, making removal more difficult. If you decide to keep them, your dentist will suggest periodic check ups and X-Rays. If wisdom tooth removal has been discussed with you, please feel free to share your concerns with us and we will be glad to advise you.