Tooth Extractions

Your general dentist and our doctors may determine that you need to have a tooth extracted.  Some teeth are extracted due to decay; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or be broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal in preparation for orthodontic treatment or because they are malpositioned in the mouth.

The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth. To avoid these complications, our doctors will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as tooth replacement options.

The Tooth Extraction Process

At the time of extraction, the doctor will numb your tooth, jaw bone and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.  During the extraction process, you will feel pressure. You feel pressure without pain since the anesthetic has numbed the nerves.  If you do feel pain at any time during the extraction process, please let us know right away.

Sectioning a Tooth

Some teeth will require sectioning.  This is  very common when a tooth is firmly anchored in the socket or if the root is curved.  The doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections, then removes each section one at a time.