Tooth Extractions
A tooth extraction is a common procedure in general dentistry where a tooth is removed from the mouth. Extractions may become necessary in certain circumstances, such as when a tooth is severely decayed or infected, when teeth are crowded, or whenever baby teeth don't fall out in time for the adult teeth to erupt.
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When a tooth is severely decayed or damaged beyond repair, a tooth extraction may be the best option for your oral health. Your dentist will make sure you're comfortable before and during the procedure, and explain the entire process so you know what to expect.
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If a tooth has a severe infection, a tooth extraction may be needed to remove the source of the infection before supporting bone has been lost.
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If your teeth are crowding each other and cannot fit properly in your mouth, one may need to be removed. This is usually recommended by an orthodontist in conjunction with braces. Your dentist will discuss the tooth extraction with you, and explain any necessary steps to ensure you're comfortable and understand the process.
Our team will provide gentle care and post-op instructions to ensure you heal properly, and review replacement options such as bridges, implants and dentures once you've recovered.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually around 16-20 years old. They can be useful if they're healthy and functional, but there are some reasons why you may need to consider removing your wisdom teeth.
The most common reasons include orthodontic treatment, impacted or partially erupted teeth that cause swelling, pain, infection, pressure on adjacent teeth, formation of cysts or tumors, and difficulty in cleaning.
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Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can cause various problems for your surrounding teeth and gums. There may not be enough room in your mouth for the wisdom teeth to fully emerge, which can cause crowding, pressure and misalignment of your adjacent teeth.
Impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to swelling, pain, infection, formation of cysts, and in rare cases – tumors that can damage your jaw. These issues have permanent effects on the health of your teeth and surrounding bone.
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Fully-erupted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean properly, which can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay or gum disease. In some cases, fully erupted wisdom teeth may not cause any problems, but they may be removed proactively to prevent potential issues in the future.
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Are you considering having your wisdom teeth removed? Here's an overview of the procedure. Please note: this may vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and your overall health condition.
Consultation: You'll have a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon to discuss the reasons for removal as well as the potential risks and benefits.
Anesthesia: Depending on the case, you may be given local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the wisdom teeth, or general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep during the procedure.
Removal: Your dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gums to remove the wisdom teeth. In some cases, the tooth may be broken into smaller pieces to make it easier to remove.
Recovery: After the procedure, you'll be given instructions on how to care for yourself during the recovery period, which can include taking pain medication, eating soft foods, avoiding smoking or using straws.
Follow-up: You'll schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon to ensure the wound is healing properly and to address any concerns you may have.
Bone Grafting & Augmentation
If you have a tooth extracted bone grafting may be recommended by your dentist. It might sound scary, but it's a routine, painless and predictable procedure.
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Bone loss can occur after a tooth is extracted. This happens because the jawbone, called the alveolar bone, supports and holds teeth in place. When a tooth is removed, the alveolar bone loses its function and starts to shrink.
To prevent this, a bone graft can be placed immediately after the extraction. It serves as a support for the socket, preventing collapse and allowing for the growth of new natural bone. This process helps to preserve the jawbone and provide more bone for a dental implant.
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The most common type of bone graft is called a socket or ridge preservation. A graft’s primary purpose is to prevent the shrinking of the alveolar bone before it can occur.
We do this by placing the graft immediately following the extraction. The graft provides support to prevent the collapse of the socket while your bone heals and fills in the area.
After a socket graft, you’ll typically be ready for your implant in 4-6 months. As a bonus, having one of these grafts will minimize post-operative pain from the implant surgery.
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No! Of course, the only way to know if you’ll need a bone graft is to schedule a consultation. During the consultation, you’ll find out if you need one and if so, what type of bone graft is needed.
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