The common misconception is that the only risk of losing a tooth is difficulty eating and speaking clearly. However, this idea is grounded in a need for more understanding of the dental ecosystem. All the components of our oral cavity have a role to play in its overall health. Each tooth supports the neighboring teeth, helping them to stay in place and protecting the sides from decay. For this reason, extractions are a last resort at Morning Star Dentistry. Effective dentistry aims to preserve the health of your natural teeth and retain them whenever possible. However, our team is here for you when extraction is inevitable.
Did You Know?
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a substance taken from your own blood that helps to promote healing. When applied after a tooth extraction, PRF helps to stimulate the healing process and acts as a bioactive band-aid.
Two Types Of Dental Extractions: Simple & Surgical
The need for extraction can happen at any point during our lives. The most common driver behind dental extraction is poor oral hygiene, followed by injury and impaction. When trauma is the cause, it’s usually the result of sports activity or play in children. Adults most often experience dental trauma from some form of accident, such as an auto accident or workplace accident. Multiple steps can be taken in both instances to try to save the tooth, including a root canal treatment. The other common cause of dental extraction is insufficient room for wisdom teeth to come in.
There are two techniques used when an extraction is necessary. The factors surrounding the tooth to be extracted determine which will be used.
- Simple Extraction – Simple extractions are the most common type performed. These extractions are used on teeth that can be easily accessed and removed without fear of crumbling. A special tool, an elevator, is used to lift the tooth out of its socket, which can be easily grasped by angle pliers and removed.
- Surgical Extraction – This is common when a tooth has not erupted correctly, especially when wisdom teeth are involved. During this procedure, cutting through gum and bone tissue may be necessary to remove the tooth.
During your consultation, Dr. Justin Liggett will let you know whether an extraction is necessary and which type will be used. All extractions begin with a comprehensive dental exam and professional cleaning. Simple extractions can be performed on the day of the cleaning, but a surgical extraction may require a separate date.
You will be told how to prepare for your surgery during the planning stage. Additionally, our team will discuss dental restoration options with you to address the missing tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a tooth extraction?
There are several reasons why you could need a tooth extraction. The most common cause of tooth extractions is severe tooth decay and cavities. However, many patients also undergo extractions for impacted teeth – particularly wisdom teeth. Other causes for extraction include advanced periodontal disease, cracked teeth, and teeth that are severely malformed. Although many circumstances that require extraction are unavoidable, some could be prevented with regular visits to the dentist for exams and cleanings. However, only your dentist can tell you if you need a tooth extraction. To determine if an extraction is needed, schedule an appointment with our office today.
What should I expect during my tooth extraction appointment?
If you and your dentist decide to extract one or more teeth, you will be scheduled to return for oral surgery at a later date. You will be given a local anesthetic to prevent pain during the procedure, and you may be prescribed medications to help manage pain in the hours following your extraction. Depending on the nature of your extraction and other factors, such as whether your teeth are impacted, you may also be sedated or given general anesthesia during your procedure.
What type of post-treatment care will I need to follow?
We place platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) around the extraction site in order to improve local blood supply, enhance healing, and shorten the recovery process. Nevertheless, post-operative care following a tooth extraction is essential for healing and preventing complications. You will be instructed to avoid certain foods and also keep the surgical site clean at all times. If you are prescribed an antibiotic, it is important that you complete the course of treatment to prevent infection. Finally, you may be advised to avoid smoking or drinking through a straw, as doing so may delay the healing process and cause a condition known as ‘dry socket.’
Schedule A Consultation For Extraction in Sonora, CA Today
Contact us today if you’re concerned you have a tooth that may need an extraction. We’ll schedule you for a consultation with Dr. Justin Liggett and discuss your options. We’ll suggest options for preserving your tooth and schedule an extraction if necessary.
