Extractions

Why Would My Tooth Need to Be Removed?

Permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but for many reasons, this doesn't always happen. For instance, you could need a tooth extracted because it is too severely damaged to keep. Illness, decay, and trauma may all contribute to needing a tooth pulled.

Extractions may be necessary for other reasons, including:

• Risk of infection from a failed root canal
• Risk of infection during an organ transplant or chemotherapy
• Advanced periodontal (gum) disease
• Extra or crowded teeth
• No room for wisdom teeth (third molars)

What is the Procedure for Extraction?

There are two types of extraction procedures: a simple extraction and a surgical extraction. Simple extractions are reserved for teeth that can be seen above the gum line. During this type of procedure, an experienced dentist at Rifkin Dental loosens your tooth with a small instrument and lifts it out with dental forceps.

A surgical extraction is a bit more complicated. The tooth may not have fully grown into the mouth, as is typical with wisdom teeth, or it may be broken off at the gum line. In these situations, the dentist makes a small incision into the gum to access and remove the tooth. Sometimes the tooth needs to be sectioned, or cut into smaller pieces, to be removed. It may also be necessary to remove some of the bone around the affected tooth.

You'll receive a local anesthetic before a simple extraction or surgical extraction so you will not feel any pain. If multiple teeth are being extracted at the same appointment, as is typical with wisdom teeth extraction, your dentist might give you a general anesthetic. You'll feel no pain and will sleep through the procedure.

What is the Timeline for Healing From a Tooth Extraction?

While it's contingent on your particular case and the number of teeth you had removed, the beginning healing stage takes about one to two weeks. In the spaces where your teeth used to be, new gum tissue and bone grow. It's possible you could have trouble chewing or experience other pain and discomfort as you recover, based on the invasiveness of your dental procedure.

Since everyone's situation is unique, contact Rifkin Dental and schedule a consultation so you can learn about your options in addition to any important post-procedure treatments such as dental implants or crowns.

Call or schedule online using the booking tool.