Why might I need a tooth extraction?
Some of the main reasons you might need a tooth extraction include:
Deep decay
Decay is the most common reason for tooth extractions, accounting for around two-thirds of all procedures. Root canal therapy can save your tooth if the structure is in reasonable condition, but not if decay affects the surface of the tooth as well as the pulp.
Extra teeth
Extra teeth take up space in your mouth, causing teeth nearby to twist out of place. Tooth extractions provide enough room for your teeth to realign properly. Most commonly, extra teeth are baby teeth that haven't shed.
Periodontal disease
Periodontal or gum disease may cause such extensive damage to your gums and underlying bone that they can no longer hold your tooth securely in place.
Orthodontics
Traditional orthodontic braces work by realigning crooked teeth, but for this to happen, there needs to be sufficient space. If there isn't, tooth extraction might be necessary.
Fractured teeth
Fortunately, the Advanced Dentistry of Center City team can save fractured teeth in most cases using root canal therapy. However, sometimes a tooth fractures in a way that makes repair impossible, and it has to come out.
Wisdom teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth in the back of your mouth may require surgical tooth extraction.
How are tooth extractions performed?
If your tooth is fully erupted, your dentist can perform a simple tooth extraction under local anesthetic. They use special instruments to raise the tooth, then cut the periodontal ligament. It's then possible to remove the tooth with dental forceps.
If the tooth is invisible or inaccessible, like an unerupted wisdom tooth, it requires surgical tooth extraction. Your provider at Advanced Dentistry of Center City makes an incision in your gum and uses a drill to remove the tooth and some of the bone tissue.
What happens after my tooth extraction?
Studies show that after tooth extractions, patients lose 40%-60% of the bone around the extraction site over the following three years. Teeth can also move out of position, so replacing the lost tooth is vital.
If there's not enough good quality bone in your jaw to secure a dental implant, you might need a bone graft. Your provider takes bone (from you or a donor) and inserts it into your jaw, where it fuses with the existing bone.
In your upper jaw, you might need a sinus lift, which raises the maxillary sinus (an air-filled cavity) to make more room for new bone.
For expert tooth extractions and replacement implants, call Advanced Dentistry of Center City today or book an appointment online.
