Tooth Extractions

Your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction for several reasons. While a tooth extraction is often the last resort, there are a few reasons why it might be necessary.

Here we will discuss the different situations where a tooth extraction is required. We will also explain the tooth extraction procedure in detail. 

Key Takeaways

• Tooth extraction may be necessary due to impacted teeth, severe decay, advanced periodontal disease, injury, orthodontic treatment, or preparation for dentures/dental implants.
• Simple extractions are performed above the gum line with local anesthesia.
• Surgical extractions require incisions in the gum tissue and may involve sedation. 
• Following aftercare instructions from your dentist will ensure a smooth recovery.
• Potential risks and complications include excessive bleeding, infections, dry socket, and damage to surrounding structures.
• Routine follow-up care and prompt communication with the dentist are vital for monitoring recovery and addressing any issues.

When is a Tooth Extraction Needed?

As mentioned previously, there are several reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted. Some of these include:

• Overcrowding or blockage: This occurs when there is not enough space in the mouth for all the permanent teeth to come in properly. In such cases, one or more teeth may need to be removed to create space for the remaining teeth.
• Impaction: This occurs when a tooth, usually the wisdom teeth, fails to fully emerge through the gums and gets trapped in the jawbone. In such cases, surgery is often required to remove the impacted tooth.
• Severe decay: Extraction may be necessary if the tooth has extensive decay and cannot be saved with other dental procedures. 
• Periodontal disease (gum disease): When gum disease reaches an advanced stage, it can destroy the bone and tissues supporting a tooth. In these cases, extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage.
• Injury: If a tooth has been damaged due to an accident or injury, it may not be able to be restored and will need to be extracted.
• Orthodontic treatment: In some cases, patients may need to have teeth removed to make room for orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign.
• Dentures or dental implants:  If a patient is getting dentures or dental implants, existing teeth may need to be extracted to make room for these restorations.

It’s important to note that while tooth extraction is often seen as a last resort, it can also prevent further issues and complications. For example, removing an impacted wisdom tooth can prevent infection and damage to surrounding teeth.

Types of Tooth Extractions

There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. 

Simple Extraction

A simple extraction is performed on teeth that are above the gumline. This type of extraction can typically be done by a dentist using local anesthesia to numb the area. The dentist will then use special tools to loosen and remove the tooth from its socket.

Simple Extraction Procedure 

Local anesthesia will be used to numb the area. Once the area is completely numb, the dentist will use special tools to loosen and remove the tooth from its socket. You may feel some pressure during this process, but you should not feel any pain.

After the tooth has been removed, gauze will be placed over the extraction site to help stop any bleeding. The dentist may also place a few stitches if necessary.

Surgical Extraction

A surgical extraction is a more complex procedure that is often necessary for impacted or hard-to-reach teeth. It involves making an incision in the gum tissue to access the affected tooth and may require stitches after the tooth has been removed. Wisdom teeth are commonly removed through surgical extraction.

Surgical Extraction Procedure

A surgical tooth extraction typically requires both local anesthesia and sedation to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. The dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the affected tooth. They may also have to remove some bone around the tooth before it can be extracted. After the tooth has been removed, stitches will be placed in the incision to help with healing.

Tooth Extraction Recovery and Aftercare

After a tooth extraction, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions carefully. This will help prevent complications and promote proper healing. Some tips for aftercare include:

• Bite down on the gauze pad placed over the extraction site for at least 30 minutes to help stop bleeding.
• Apply an ice pack to the affected area to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Do not drink through a straw.
• Do not smoke cigarettes or marijuana, chew tobacco or vape. Doing so can lead to infection and a painful condition called dry socket. 
• Stick to soft foods for the first few days after surgery and avoid hard or crunchy foods that could irritate the wound.
• Take any prescribed pain medication as directed by your dentist.
• Keep the extraction site clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water. To make this, add a teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of warm water. Rinse your mouth after every meal to prevent food from getting caught in the extraction site.
• Take any prescribed pain medication as directed by your dentist. This will help manage any discomfort or pain you may experience after the extraction. Follow the recommended dosage and do not exceed it.
• Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss your teeth, being careful around the extraction site(s). 

If you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or other concerning symptoms after a tooth extraction, contact your dentist immediately. With proper care and follow-up appointments, the extraction site should heal within a week to ten days.

Risks and Complications

While tooth extractions are generally safe procedures, there are some risks and complications that may occur. These include:

• Excessive bleeding or infection at the extraction site.
• Dry socket, which is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot in the extraction site breaks down or becomes dislodged.
• Damage to surrounding teeth, nerves, or sinus cavity during surgical extraction.
• Delayed healing due to underlying health conditions such as diabetes or immune disorders.

If a patient is in good to moderate physical health, Dr. Khodakhast will perform tooth extractions at her office. In some cases, if a patient is medically compromised, referral to a hospital-based setting may be required. 

Tooth Extractions Centennial, CO

At Argyle Dental & Prosthodontics, we understand that tooth extractions can be intimidating and strive to make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible for our patients.  We offer conscious sedation options to help you relax and provide thorough aftercare instructions to promote proper healing.

Our prosthodontist, Dr. Ava Khodakhast, has extensive experience in performing tooth extractions and will carefully evaluate your situation to determine the best course of action for your oral health. If you are in need of a tooth extraction, trust our team to provide compassionate care and exceptional results.

If you are searching for a tooth extraction dentist in Centennial, tooth extraction in Highlands Ranch, CO, or a ‘dentist near me’, we can help! Our office in Centennial, CO is conveniently located in Arapahoe County, just 5 miles from Douglas County. 

Call (303) 770-2254 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile!

FAQs About Tooth Extractions