Extractions
The teeth are an incredible component of your mouth. They are exceptionally strong and withstand a significant amount of daily wear and tear. Despite their strength, teeth can still become damaged and decay. If you are faced with tooth damage, the ideal solution is to save the tooth. If the damage is too severe, though, saving the affected tooth may not be possible. In this situation, Sussex Dental can perform an extraction.
Effects of Severely Damaged TeethWhen your teeth are severely damaged, your oral health and your overall health are put at risk. Not only are these teeth at risk of further damage, but they are also at risk for infection. The enamel layer of your teeth is hard and heavily mineralized. It protects the more sensitive inner layers. When the damage progresses to these inner layers, bacteria can enter the pulp. Once there, they attack the soft tissue contained inside the tooth. The pulp becomes irritated and inflamed, leading to serious pain. If left untreated, bacteria can enter the bloodstream leading to increased risk of medical emergencies like heart attack and/or stroke.
Signs You Might Need an ExtractionIf your teeth are damaged, it is essential that you make an appointment right away. We will perform a thorough oral exam to determine the best course of action for your needs. We visually inspect your teeth and take x-rays. These enable us to see damage below your gumline, such as root damage, abscesses, and cysts. Saving the tooth with a crown or a root canal is ideal. However, this is not always possible. Reasons for a tooth extraction include:| • |
Cracks below the gumline. This type of damage includes cracks that start in the crown and travel below the gums as well as cracks that occur only in the root.
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Split teeth.
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Shattered teeth.
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Severely decayed teeth.
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Impacted wisdom teeth.
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Overcrowded teeth may be removed for effective orthodontic treatment. |
The Extraction ProcessThere are two ways in which a tooth can be extracted. The type of extraction you need depends upon how badly the tooth is damaged. The first type of extraction is called a simple extraction. This procedure is fairly straightforward. After a local anesthetic is administered, the tooth is gripped with forceps and moved gently, but firmly, back and forth, widening the socket. This loosens the tooth enough for us to lift it free. A surgical extraction is typically done when the situation is complicated or complex. This type of extraction is usually done under a local anesthetic as well as sedation if necessary. Incisions in the gums expose the roots of the damaged teeth and the jawbone. We then work to remove the affected teeth. A section of bone might need to be removed, or a tooth may need to be trimmed to properly perform the procedure.
Once the teeth have been removed, the gums are sutured closed. Regardless of what type of extraction you need, it is essential that the teeth be replaced. Before your extractions, we will discuss your options with you, which may include a bridge, a partial denture, or dental implants. We will help determine the best possible solution for you. While preserving damaged teeth is always preferable, it is not always possible. If you have suffered tooth damage, call Sussex Dental to schedule your appointment today at(262) 246-6806. |
