Teeth Extractions

When tooth damage occurs, it's important to seek treatment to prevent the damage from spreading or causing more serious oral health problems. In minor cases, dentists can often repair your teeth with a filling, root canal, or crown. However, in more severe cases, these procedures usually are not enough to reverse the damage. More serious instances of tooth damage most often require an extraction.

Oral surgeons are experts in the removal of teeth, and tooth extractions are some of the most commonly performed oral surgery procedures. We will evaluate the level of damage, along with your referring dentist, and determine whether you require an extraction. If we must remove your teeth, we will discuss all of your options for tooth replacement, such as dental implants. .

Indications for Tooth Extraction

Teeth are in constant contact with bacteria, and we use them constantly for daily tasks, which makes them extremely susceptible to damage. Some of the most common reasons teeth require extraction include the following:

• Decay (caries). Dental caries, also known as decay, is one of the more common indications for tooth extraction. The extent to which the tooth is decayed and considered non-restorable is a decision that is made between the dentist and the patient.
• Periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can result in bone loss and tooth mobility. In severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted to prevent the problem from spreading to adjacent teeth or affecting the overall oral health of the patient.
• Cracked teeth. A tooth that is cracked and cannot be restored with a crown may require extraction
• Impacted teeth. Impacted teeth should be considered for extraction as they may lead to more serious problems such as infection, decay on adjacent teeth, or development of pathologic lesions.
• Dental crowding. Dental crowding and tooth misalignment may require extraction of teeth to create space for proper tooth alignment or to allow impacted teeth to erupt. Sometimes, your orthodontist can correct crowding with braces or other appliances. However, tooth extractions are often necessary to allow for proper growth.
• Broken teeth. Facial traumas, such as car accidents, sports injuries, and physical altercations, frequently result in broken teeth. When your dentist and oral surgeon are unable to repair the teeth, we will extract them and discuss your options for tooth replacement, such as dental implants.

Tooth extractions are a standard solution to a variety of dental problems. Maintaining routine checkups with your dentist increases your chances of avoiding tooth extractions, as your dentist can identify and treat many problems before they escalate to a point where they require an extraction. We also strongly encourage you to maintain healthy oral hygiene habits at home. Taking care of your teeth by brushing and flossing every day will go a long way in preventing the need for tooth removal. If you require an extraction, our oral surgeons will discuss the risks, benefits and indications for extractions with you at your consultation appointment and ensure that you are informed of the options for tooth replacement after extraction.