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Tooth Extraction

Line drawing of an impacted tooth.

Expert Tooth Extraction: Preserving Your Dental Health

While safeguarding your natural teeth is a priority, circumstances can arise where removal becomes necessary. The degree of damage determines the extraction approach:

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Simple Extraction

Local anesthesia numbs the extraction site. This method applies to visible teeth. A dental elevator and forceps are employed to gently remove the tooth.

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Surgical Extraction

Conducted under general anesthesia, surgical extractions are necessary for less accessible teeth. This includes teeth that haven't fully erupted or have broken beneath the gum line. The surgeon creates a small gum incision, retracts tissue, and removes surrounding bone or part of the tooth, ensuring smoother extraction with dental instruments.

Tooth extractions often relate to wisdom teeth, but various situations warrant this procedure: tooth decay, gum disease, overcrowding, impacted teeth, fractures, and retained baby teeth.

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Reasons for Tooth Extraction

  • Tooth Decay: Neglected dental care leads to decay. Left untreated, decay progresses through stages:

    1. Tooth enamel damage

    2. Inner tooth deterioration

    3. Central hole formation

    4. Root canal infection Timely diagnosis is vital. If intervention isn't possible, extraction followed by implants or bridges may be recommended.

  • Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease harms gums, ligaments, and bone supporting teeth. This loosens teeth, eventually causing natural loss or requiring extraction followed by treatment.

  • Overcrowded Teeth: Orthodontic treatment might necessitate tooth extraction to make room for proper alignment.

  • Impacted Teeth: Teeth that partially or fully fail to emerge due to crowding, angulation, or displacement require extraction, often seen with wisdom teeth.

  • Broken Teeth: Severe fractures near the gum line hinder restoration, warranting extraction.

  • Baby Teeth: Abnormal eruption of baby teeth obstructs permanent teeth, necessitating extraction for unimpeded growth.

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With regular dental visits, early intervention can prevent extraction. Seek professional advice for personalized guidance and maintain optimal oral health.

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