Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone.
When may I need a tooth extraction?
Tooth extractions become necessary when your tooth is no longer viable.
How will the dentist extract my teeth?
The dentist will first numb the area using a local anaesthetic, this will ensure that you will not feel any pain when the tooth is extracted. You may feel some discomfort, but the procedure should not hurt. If you are very nervous the procedure can be completed under sedation. Our goal is to always have you have a positive experience, feeling comfortable in our surgery.
If it is a simple extraction, once the area is thoroughly numb the dentist will use loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator before removing it with dental forceps.
If it is a surgical extraction, is a more complex procedure used for a tooth that may have broken off at the gum line or has not come into the mouth yet. The dentist will make a small incision into your gum and remove the underlying tooth.
Is there definitely no other option that an extraction?
Here at Sevenoaks Dental & Implant Centre we always aim to put your oral health, comfort, and best interests first. If we suggest the removal of a tooth, it is through a conservative decision – we will only extract a tooth if all other restorative measures fail or will not suffice.
How do I can for the socket following a tooth extraction?
Following the extraction, you will be provided with detailed at home care instructions. To speed up the recovery process be sure to follow these at home instructions.
Benefits of an extraction
Relieves pain and discomfort – If the severity of the dental problem is relatively high, removing the tooth is the only way to remove the discomfort.
Saves the rest of your teeth – One big risk that dentists try to avoid is giving a chance for cavity or infection to spread on to the neighbouring teeth. That’s why tooth removal needs to be done to stop the spread of infection affecting the other teeth, and the surrounding tissues and bones as well.
Make way for a beautiful smile – In some cases, your dentist will also suggest removing the tooth even if there’s no problem with it. Like in orthodontics, some patients have crooked teeth due to overcrowding. Naturally, the solution is to remove a tooth, like a molar extraction, so the other teeth can adjust to their proper places. This eventually results in a more beautiful smile.