Dental extractions are performed for a variety of reasons, including tooth decay, injury, infection, and for orthodontic treatment. Extractions are a relatively common procedure in most dental offices. The difficulty of the procedure varies depending on the case and the patient, however anesthesia is used to numb the area and prevent discomfort during the procedure.
How Are Tooth Extractions Performed?
In many cases, teeth can be removed via a simple extraction. When a simple extraction is possible, the area around the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic. The tooth is then carefully loosened with a tool called an ‘elevator,’ which allows the tooth to be successfully removed. In more complex situations, such as the tooth being completely broken above the surface of the gums, a surgical extraction may be required.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Dr. Peavy always tries to save your tooth/teeth if possible, but sometimes that is the only option to get you back on the road to health. A tooth may need to be removed due to some of the following reasons:
- Severe tooth decay or infection
- Extra teeth that are blocking other teeth from growing in (supernumerary teeth)
- Severe gum disease
- Orthodontic treatment
- Non-restorable teeth
- Fractured teeth
- Cosmetic reasons
- Physical Trauma
- Overcrowding
Tooth Replacement Options
If you have a tooth extraction, your dentist will replace the extracted tooth area with either an implant, bridge, or removable or permanent denture implants. The dentist will base this decision on your unique circumstances and preferences. It is important to not wait to have your tooth or teeth replaced as the negative side effects of missing a tooth can grow increasingly detrimental to your overall oral health and outward appearance.
Implants
A dental implant is designed to replace the root of a missing tooth. The implant is then covered by an artificial tooth, or crown, to give it the appearance and functionality of a normal tooth. At Winston-Salem Dental Specialists, our doctors use state-of-the-art 3D technology and surgical guides to plan and place a dental implant. This ensures the implant is placed correctly and in the most optimal spot.
Teeth implant surgeries help to relieve the negative effects of tooth loss such as poor diet, speech, misalignment, facial appearances, and more. Your dentist will assess whether a dental implant is the best choice for replacing your missing tooth or teeth.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Bridges
A dental bridge is another option for patients who have one or several missing teeth. The bridge looks and functions similar to a normal tooth. A patient may be missing teeth due to tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. It is crucial missing teeth are replaced right away in order to retain good oral health and prevent further pain. Teeth all work together so when one is missing, the absence is noticeable, especially when chewing.
To receive a dental bridge, the neighboring teeth around the missing area will need to be prepped. It is common for the neighboring teeth to receive crowns so they can better support the bridge in between them. These teeth are then known as the anchor or abutment teeth. Next, the bridge will be placed to fill in the gap and restore the natural appearance and functionality of the missing tooth.
Removable or Permanent Denture Implants
Removable or permanent implant-supported dentures are another alternative to fill in the gap of many missing teeth. This procedure can initially be more expensive but it can pay off greatly in the long run. When deciding between removable or permanent implant dentures, speak with your dentist and view more information on the two options on our Implant Dentures page.
Learn More About Implant Dentures
In Need Of A Tooth Extraction? Contact Winston-Salem Dental Specialists Today!
If you are having issues with your teeth and don’t know what work you may need to have done, reach out to us today. We can set up a consultation and examine your teeth and gums to determine what issues you may have. Should extraction be necessary, we will gladly discuss your options and answer all of your questions to keep you well informed and stress-free throughout the process. Contact us in Winston-Salem today!
Got a question?
No problem.
We will schedule your appointment with Winston-Salem Dental Specialists as promptly as possible. If you have pain or an emergency situation, every attempt will be made to see you that day.
We value your time and do everything we can to stay on schedule and minimize your wait. While in our office, please enjoy your stay and have a nice beverage and relax in our serenity room; we also offer free WIFI to take care of some business during your visit. We appreciate your understanding and patience when unpredictable appointment delays occur.
Contact us.
Winston-Salem Dental Specialists is a member of the following professional organizations (not all doctors belong to all these organizations):
