Dental implants are a highly effective solution for lost teeth. Crowns mimic natural teeth in their form and function and titanium posts bond with and stimulate your jaw bone, allowing the 
Fixing Dental Problems Through Tooth Extraction
At Periodontal Associates we are committed to saving your teeth using a wide range of dental solutions. However, in some cases, your teeth may be badly damaged beyond saving. In other situations, allowing the affected tooth to remain in your mouth can lead to additional dental problems. In any of these scenarios, tooth extraction can offer a great solution by removing the problematic tooth/teeth.
When is a Tooth Extraction Needed?
A tooth extraction procedure is performed when other dental solutions are ineffective. Below is a look at some of the situations when extraction is necessary:
| • | A badly decayed tooth. Ideally, tooth decay should be treated using restorative procedures such as dental fillings, dental bonding, and root canal treatment. However, when the damage caused by decay is extensive such that the tooth cannot be saved, extraction is a better option. Tooth extraction is also ideal in treating dental decay in baby teeth, as opposed to using restorative solutions. |
| • | Severely damaged teeth following dental trauma. Following a dental trauma, your teeth can be badly damaged such that they are beyond repair. In such a case, extraction is the only viable option. |
| • | Impacted teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth can be extremely painful, and can also cause other dental problems such as overcrowding of the teeth, damage to the adjacent teeth, and jaw pain problems. Extracting the impacted wisdom teeth can prevent these problems. Tooth extraction can also be used when treating impacted canines when other solutions are ineffective. |
| • | Overcrowded teeth. Overcrowded teeth can be treated using various orthodontic solutions such as dental braces or aligners. However, before undergoing these treatments, space is required on the jawbone, which can often result in the extraction of one or more teeth. |
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction Procedure?
A tooth extraction procedure is usually performed in a single visit. The procedure starts with a diagnosis that is reached using a dental examination, dental x-rays, or other dental imaging techniques such as a CT scan. Extraction is then performed after the condition of the affected tooth is evaluated, and it is determined that it is beyond saving.
During the extraction procedure, sedation (nitrous oxide sedation) or anesthesia is used to relax you and numb the pain. Depending on your preference and your dental condition, a combination of both sedation options can also be used.
Usually, extraction is a simple procedure that involves loosening the tooth and then pulling it off the jawbone. However, in some cases, simple extraction might not be possible – for example, if the tooth is broken or when extracting impacted teeth. In such cases, surgical extraction is used to remove the tooth.
During surgical extraction, anesthesia – local or general – is used to guarantee a painless and comfortable experience. An incision is then performed on the gum tissue to expose the teeth and the jawbone. Once it is exposed, the tooth is pulled from the jawbone, and the surgical site sutured to prevent bleeding and allow healing.
At Periodontal Associates we can offer you several dental solutions to repair your teeth. However, when this is not possible, we can help to fix the dental problem using tooth extraction, which can be followed by various teeth replacement treatments to restore your smile.
Call us today at (971) 317-8414 to find out how we can help you.
