TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

Retention of teeth is the most acceptable choice, whenever possible. Modern restorative dentistry can save teeth remarkably well. There are occasions where the teeth are decayed or broken down beyond repair and tooth extraction is the treatment of choice.

Some consider a tooth extraction to be a solution to relieving dental pain. However, the extraction of teeth can be the beginning of another set of dental problems. Once an extraction is done, jaw shrinks about 1/64th of an inch each year. In some areas, this bone shrinkage does not pose a problem but in some areas of the mouth, it can present a significant problem with restoring function or appearance. This loss of bone can be reduced or prevented using bone grafting.

There are times when tooth removal is necessary as in impacted wisdom teeth or improperly positioned teeth.

Careful tooth removal does not cause any health challenge. Most extractions are performed under local anesthetic. The more difficult procedures may require sedation. If infection is present, an antibiotic is prescribed to reduce the risk of infection.

Sutures may be placed to hold the tissues in place while they heal. Some sutures resorb overtime while some sutures require a return visit for removal. Depending on the nature of extraction, a prescription may be given to help reduce discomfort. Soon after the extraction, a cold pack placed over the site of extraction may help reduce swelling.

If tooth or teeth have been removed where function or esthetics is impaired, there are several options of restoring teeth. Among the restorative choices are dental implants with crowns on them, fixed bridges, removable partial dentures or complete dentures.

Risks of tooth removal are relatively minor and costs moderate . The dental surgical and restorative techniques of today are highly advanced and can provide comfortable and predictable outcomes for both the tooth removal and their subsequent replacement.