An extraction is the removal of a tooth. Extractions are performed for a wide variety of reasons, including tooth decay that has destroyed enough tooth structure to render the tooth non-restorable. Extractions of impacted or problematic wisdom teeth are routinely performed as well. Here are some of the major causes of tooth extractions:

TOOTH DECAY

If tooth decay is left untreated, it can erode the enamel and infect the interior of a tooth. This infection can affect the pulp inside the tooth, leading to pain when biting down or sensitivity to extreme temperatures. At this point, extraction may be the only option to prevent more damage to your mouth.

If you have severe tooth decay, our dentist may recommend extracting the tooth to prevent further damage and restore a healthy mouth. The dentist will discuss all treatment options with you to ensure you receive the treatment that best meets your needs.

IMPACTED WISDOM TEETH

Some people need to have their wisdom teeth extracted before they erupt or because they don’t break through the gums as they should. This is a common procedure that is usually fairly simple for our dentist to perform.

We will use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth that is being removed. Then, we will carefully rock the tooth back and forth until it breaks free enough to be removed.

Once your wisdom tooth is removed, you will be sent home with instructions on how to care for your wound and medications to help with any post-operative pain. There may be some bleeding and swelling for a few days after the extraction, so it’s important to follow all instructions to help with the healing.

ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

If a patient has severe orthodontic problems or severely misaligned teeth, the dentist may recommend extracting one or more teeth before placing braces to correct the problem. Tooth extractions are most often used for patients with crowded mouths or whose teeth are severely crooked.

Prior to performing an extraction, the dentist will take X-rays of the mouth to diagnose the condition and determine how many teeth will need to be extracted to correct the issue. The dentist can also use X-ray images to plan the tooth replacement procedure if needed. Following the tooth extraction, the patient will receive care instructions.

SEVERE GUM DISEASE

When gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, the gums may become infected and inflamed. The infection can destroy the underlying bone, causing the tooth to become loose or fall out.

To restore oral health, we may recommend extracting the affected teeth. In some cases, we may also recommend replacing the extracted tooth with a dental implant-supported crown.

POST-EXTRACTION CARE

After tooth extraction, follow these tips to ensure your mouth heals properly and quickly:

• Avoid drinking alcohol for the first 24 hours to reduce the likelihood of a painful dry socket.
• Take any medications as prescribed.
• Use an over-the-counter pain reliever as needed to reduce discomfort.
• Be extra cautious when brushing your teeth so that the clot will not be dislodged.

To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice, call (801) 796-3535 or schedule a consultation online. You can also visit us at 597 S Pleasant Grove Blvd #12, Pleasant Grove, UT 84062.