Tooth Extractions

Simple & Pain Free Extraction Solutions

Tooth extractions are a common procedure for dentists. There are several reasons why you would need a tooth extraction. These can range from more serious problems such as tooth decay or simply overcrowding in the mouth. The process of extracting teeth is actually more simple than you might think. Depending on the follow-up treatment you may need, the recovery period isn’t that long. Extractions are also performed with the patient’s health in mind as, if the problem tooth isn’t dealt with, it could lead to other health issues.

The most common reasons for tooth extractions

Here is an overview of some of the most common reasons for tooth extractions. These particular conditions, if left untreated, could cause further complications. For this reason, the dentist will opt for removing the tooth.

Tooth decay: Tooth decay, if not caught early enough, is probably the most common reason for tooth extraction. Tooth decay can cause infection, and once this spreads to the core of the tooth, it’s safer to extract it. This could lead to a number of potential health issues if not.

Gum disease: Gum disease can be equally as dangerous if left untreated. It can cause deterioration in the support structure of the tooth, meaning the gum tissue, bone, and ligament. This could even cause the tooth to fall out on its own.
Overcrowding: If your teeth are overcrowded, in order to make space you might need extractions. This is typical in preparation for orthodontic work. After the extractions, the remaining adult teeth can grow in straight.
Impacted teeth: An impacted tooth is one that isn’t able to erupt because it is either blocked by other teeth or overcrowding, for instance. This is a particularly common problem with wisdom teeth, and for that reason, they are often extracted.
Broken teeth: Extractions are performed on broken teeth if they can’t be treated with any other solution. This is often better for the oral health of the patient overall, as a broken tooth could lead to the loss of the tooth or other complications.

The process of tooth extractions

With all extractions, the dentist will prescribe an anesthetic to ensure the experience is as comfortable as possible for the patient. Most of the time, a local anesthetic is used, but occasionally a general anesthetic is given and the procedure is performed with the patient unconscious. As soon as the anesthetic has taken effect, the dentist will get rid of any excess gum tissue or bone and will gently extract the tooth using forceps.

The average recovery time is usually around 7 to 10 days. You should try to minimize oral activity such as eating or drinking for 24hours. Dentists usually recommend eating soft or liquid foods after that and to gently brush the area as normal. Overall, it’s a fairly simple procedure that can then be followed up by installing a dental implant, or carrying out orthodontic work, for example.

Sedation Options

We want our patients to be relaxed and comfortable during their extraction, so we offer three different sedation options. Sedation during procedures is used to help the patient feel more relaxed and experience less anxiety. The three sedation methods we offer include:

“Laughing Gas”: This is our most mild form of sedation. We administer laughing gas through a mask. As you breathe in, it will ease nerves. Since this sedation is minor, it will allow you to be fully awake and aware through the procedure, and you will be able to drive yourself home.
Oral Sedation: We will prescribe a sedative pill to experience a deeper relaxation through your procedure. The doctor will give you the medication the night before your extraction. We direct you to take it an hour before your procedure for maximum effect. Patients will remain awake and alert with the use of oral sedation.
IV Sedation: The heaviest form of sedation we offer is IV sedation. We administer this medication through an IV before and during the procedure. Patients will be conscious but so relaxed and will most likely fall asleep. Because this form of sedation is heavy, patients are directed to be dropped off and picked up at our office.