An extraction is the removal of a tooth. Teeth extractions are most often performed because of tooth decay, advanced gum disease, orthodontic treatment, or wisdom teeth.
When performed for cosmetic reasons, an extraction is a voluntary procedure. Patients can elect to have a tooth extracted because it is misshapen, discolored, or poorly positioned in the mouth.
At Main Street Dental, tooth extractions are not painful, and most patients report that the discomfort they experience during the procedure is manageable.
Types of Extractions
Simple Extraction
During a simple extraction, your dentist will loosen your tooth before removing it. A general Dentist in Salt Lake, UT is usually able to perform a simple extraction, though many oral surgeons can also perform this simple procedure.
If a patient has an infection or abscess, a simple extraction may not be ideal. Instead, your dentist may recommend a surgical extraction.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
Surgical tooth extractions are sometimes necessary to remove a tooth that is too damaged for a filling or crown. During your procedure, our dentist will numb your tooth with a local anesthetic and gently break the tooth away from the gums and jawbone. After the extraction, we will go over your aftercare instructions, including how to treat the extraction site while it heals.
Reason for Extractions
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is the main reason why people need to have their teeth extracted. The decay can weaken the tooth to the point where it can no longer support itself. Extraction is often recommended as the affected teeth can impede your ability to clean and maintain healthy teeth.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment requires permanent tooth extraction. If teeth need to be extracted to make room for braces, your dentist will discuss any options for replacing them. Each case is different, but most patients who undergo orthodontic treatment will require the removal of one or more teeth to make room for the braces.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth are teeth that become trapped beneath the gum line or bone. As a result, patients experience pain, discomfort, and difficulty cleaning their teeth. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can damage adjacent teeth or lead to infection.
Mouth injury
A mouth injury can lead to teeth being knocked out, fractured, or cracked. These injuries can be incredibly painful and should be treated immediately. If a tooth has been knocked out, keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or cool water. Do not touch the root of the tooth as this can damage the cells. If you can find the tooth, gently insert it back into the socket. If you cannot find the lost tooth, visit a dentist immediately. A dentist can determine if the tooth can be replanted or if a dental implant is a better option.
Mouth cancer
Tooth extraction is occasionally performed to remove teeth that are affected by mouth cancer. This treatment method can be especially beneficial if a tumor is discovered during an examination. The dentist will remove the cancerous tooth and reconstruct your smile. The extracted tooth can be replaced by a dental implant or dental bridge.
For the best dental care tailored to your unique needs, visit Main Street Dental at 3195 S Main St Ste 225, South Salt Lake, UT 84115, or call (801) 467-2255.