Extractions

What are extractions?

Extractions are dental procedures to remove damaged or decayed teeth. There are two types of extractions that Dr. Moore and the team can perform at Four Corners Dental and Dentures:

Simple extraction

A simple extraction is a nonsurgical procedure that Dr. Moore performs when your tooth is visible above the gum line. During a simple extraction, the team administers a local anesthetic and uses a dental elevator tool to gently loosen the affected tooth. Then, they carefully pull it from the crown to remove the entire tooth.

Surgical extraction

A surgical extraction is necessary when part of your tooth remains trapped beneath the gum line. Teeth trapped beneath the gum line can be dangerous to your oral health. They may fracture or push against surrounding teeth, increasing your risk of pain and infection.

During a surgical extraction, Dr. Moore and the team administer an anesthetic to numb your mouth before creating an incision in your gums. Next, they use special dental tools to carefully extract the tooth and any fragments beneath the gum line. Finally, they suture the incision to prevent infection.

Why would I need a tooth extraction?

Some of the most common reasons Dr. Moore may recommend a tooth extraction include:

• Severe damage or decay
• Trauma
• Preparation for orthodontic treatment
• Infection deep in the tooth

Overcrowding

Overcrowding occurs when your mouth doesn’t have enough room to accommodate all of your teeth. To prevent future complications and orthodontic concerns, Dr. Moore may recommend removing one or more of your teeth.

Impacted wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth are your final molars. You have two in your upper arch and two in your lower jaw. Wisdom teeth don’t emerge until early adulthood, typically between ages 17-21. By the time your wisdom teeth arrive, your jaw is already fully developed and may not have enough room to accommodate them. As a result, they can fracture or push into your surrounding teeth.

How do I know if I need a tooth extraction?

Common signs that you have decayed, damaged, or impacted teeth include:

• Swollen gums
• Pain when chewing
• Throbbing pain around the tooth
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Headaches
• Jaw pain

Another common reason for extractions are abscesses. A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that forms at the tooth root. If an abscess ruptures, it can spread potentially harmful bacteria throughout your mouth and bloodstream. An extraction is often the best treatment to prevent future complications.

To learn more about extractions, call Four Corners Dental and Dentures or schedule an appointment online today.