Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure. It involves removing a tooth from its socket in the bone. It is a critical procedure to prevent further dental issues. Sometimes, the damage to the tooth is beyond repair, making extraction necessary. There are several reasons you might need a tooth pulled. Severe decay, infection, or crowding can lead to the necessity for an extraction. Wisdom teeth, in particular, often need removal due to misalignment or impaction.
At Mohr Smiles, we prioritize your dental health and comfort. Understanding the details of tooth extraction can help alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the procedure.
Tooth Extractions in Tucson, AZ
Teeth are not actually pulled. They are loosened gently and eased out. The most common reasons for tooth extraction are irreparable tooth decay, cracked or broken teeth, reinfected root canals, and advanced gum disease.
Leaving a diseased tooth in place can spread disease to other teeth, bones, and anatomical structures such as nerves, sinuses, and the brain. Dental infections lead to hundreds of thousands of emergency visits each year and occasionally death.
- Ridge Preservation (socket augmentation): When a tooth is extracted, ridge preservation is recommended to help preserve a normal bone level. After the removal of a tooth, the resulting bone loss causes a shape defect that can complicate the later placement of a dental implant. Ridge preservation means augmenting the extraction socket with bone particles at the time of extraction. Grafting bone at a later time after healing is expensive, more invasive, and may delay treatment with implants.
- Crown Lengthening: To restore a broken or decayed tooth with a crown, a certain length of sound tooth is needed to hold the crown in place. When the length is not present, a tooth can be lengthened by simply lowering the height of the bone around the tooth. This is a non-painful surgical procedure done under local anesthetic.
- Alveoplasty: A surgical procedure to reshape the bone under your gums where teeth are missing is called alveoplasty. It is usually done to make dentures fit better or more comfortably. It is often done with extractions to remove sharp or bulky areas of bone.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction in Tucson, AZ
There are several reasons you might need a tooth pulled. Severe decay, infection, or crowding can lead to the necessity for an extraction. Wisdom teeth, in particular, often need removal due to misalignment or impaction.
Severe Tooth Decay
Tooth decay can cause significant pain and infection. When a cavity reaches the inner layers of the tooth, it may not be repairable with fillings or root canals, leading to the need for extraction.
Advanced Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontitis, can cause teeth to loosen by damaging the surrounding gum tissues and bone. When this happens, extracting the affected tooth might be the best course of action.
Crowded Teeth
Orthodontic treatments often require the removal of certain teeth to provide enough space for alignment. This process ensures that the teeth can move into their proper positions.
Preparing for Tooth Extraction
Preparing for a tooth extraction involves several steps. First, a dental examination is necessary to assess the condition of the problematic tooth. X-rays help in understanding the tooth’s position and the extent of damage. Based on this information, a treatment plan is developed to ensure a smooth procedure.
Dental Examination
During the dental examination, Dr. Mohr will check the health of your teeth and gums. This step helps in planning the extraction process.
X-rays
X-rays provide a clear picture of the tooth’s position and condition. These images are crucial in determining the best approach for extraction.
Treatment Plan
A personalized treatment plan will be created based on the examination and X-rays. This plan covers all steps of the extraction process, ensuring you know what to expect.
Potential Complications and Risks
With every procedure, there are potential risks or complications. However, Dr. Mohr and our team do everything possible to minimize these issues.
Common Complications
Complications are rare but possible. They can include dry socket, infection, or prolonged bleeding. Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges, exposing bone and nerves.
Prevention Measures
To avoid complications, follow the aftercare instructions closely. Do not use straws, smoke, or engage in strenuous activities immediately after the extraction. Keeping the area clean is also crucial.
What to Expect After Extraction
Swelling and mild discomfort are common after an extraction. Over-the-counter pain medication can alleviate these symptoms. If you experience severe pain, fever, or unusual swelling, contact Dr. Mohr’s office for advice.
Alternatives to Tooth Extraction
Many patients want to avoid tooth extractions. We do, too! A tooth extraction is more of a last option to protect your oral health. There are potential alternatives to extraction.
Root Canal Therapy
In some cases, root canal therapy can save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction. This procedure involves removing infected tissue from inside the tooth and sealing it.
Dental Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges can restore damaged teeth or fill gaps left by missing teeth. They are less invasive alternatives to extraction and can preserve your natural smile.
Dental Implants as Substitutes
If extraction is unavoidable, dental implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth. Implants are sturdy, long-lasting, and function like natural teeth. Tooth extraction is sometimes a necessary step to maintain oral health.