A dental extraction is a process of removing a tooth from the mouth in its entirety. It would be required when patients have cavities, damaged teeth, need orthodontic treatment, or suffering from severe pain due to an impacted tooth. The dentist will thoroughly diagnose you and determine the need for an extraction, based on which you will be prepared for the procedure.

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Need for an extraction

Cavities: Cavities are caused due to oral microbes deposited on the teeth surfaces. They release harmful substances that erode the enamel and decay the underlying tissues. If a cavity isn’t treated in the initial stages, it may grow bigger and deeper, eventually reaching the root canal cavity. If the tooth can’t be treated or restored using any means, the dentist will recommend extracting it.

Impacted teeth: An impacted tooth is one that gets stuck in the jawbone while erupting. This mostly occurs with the wisdom teeth – the last set of molars to emerge. The condition can be highly painful and may result in infections, which is why it is best to get such teeth extracted.

External trauma: Often, teeth that have sustained damage due to external trauma lead to a lot of pain and bleeding. We will try to restore them using dental crowns, veneers, or composite bonding. But, if this isn’t possible, we may have to remove the tooth entirely.

Orthodontic treatment: Crowding is a type of malocclusion where the teeth are tightly packed. When the dentist suggests orthodontic treatment using dental braces or Invisalign, a tooth may have to be removed on either side of the jaw to make space for the movement of the teeth.

How is an extraction carried out?

A dental extraction is a straightforward and simple process. The dentist will prepare you for the procedure after the initial diagnosis. Local anesthesia will be administered near the tooth to numb it and the surrounding tissues. Once the sedative takes effect, the dentist will hold the tooth using forceps and shake it to loosen it from the socket. Once it is loose enough, the tooth will be extracted in one go, and you wouldn’t feel any pain. The wound may be closed using a suture, after which suitable medication will be prescribed to facilitate optimum healing. It is recommended you stick to a liquid diet for a couple of days, and avoid any food that is hot or spicy.

Please schedule an appointment online or call us at (503) 581-2446 to consult with our dentist, Dr. Giruc, and we will be happy to assist you further.