When a tooth cannot be repaired or restored, an extraction may be the best option. Our dentists will assess your tooth and determine if it can be fixed or if it should be removed. There are a few reasons a tooth may need to be extracted, such as:
1. Tooth decay: Decay that has progressed too far cannot usually be treated. In these cases, tooth extraction may be the only option to prevent other complications.
2. Impacted tooth: An impacted tooth is one that cannot erupt into the mouth and is stuck below the gum line. Impacted teeth can push on other teeth, causing misalignment. This can also increase the risk of decay and gum disease.
3. Crowding: If a tooth is blocking other teeth, it may need to be extracted. Not doing so can cause misalignment and increase the risk of gum disease as well.
4. Trauma: If a tooth has been knocked out, it can lead to infection and damage to the surrounding teeth. Sometimes, the best option is to remove the tooth permanently.
5. Orthodontic treatment: If a tooth is in the way of orthodontic treatment, it can cause treatment delays. In most cases of orthodontic treatment, we will have teeth extracted to make space for the adjoining teeth to move.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
An impacted wisdom tooth is one that has not fully erupted into the mouth. Wisdom teeth develop in the late teens or early twenties for most people. If there is no room for them, they may become trapped (impacted). Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and even infection. Patients who have impacted wisdom teeth may notice a visible indentation in the gums where the tooth is attempting to grow. These indentations typically do not go away on their own.
Surgical Extractions
If a tooth must be removed, your Dentist Colorado Springs CO will first numb the area to lessen any discomfort. Then, we will gently rock the tooth back and forth until it is loose and then pull it out. Sometimes, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces. This depends on the size and shape of the tooth.
At our office, we can perform non-surgical extractions as well (also referred to as “simple extractions”). When you visit our dental office, our dentists will carefully examine your teeth for signs of a problem. If we determine that an extraction is necessary, we’ll take careful steps to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
Recovery After Extractions
While the actual procedure may only take 30 minutes to an hour, most patients experience some swelling and soreness. This usually subsides within 48 hours, but you may feel more comfortable using an ice pack to reduce any discomfort. Good dental hygiene is important after an extraction. Patients can expect pain and swelling in the days following the extraction procedure. Some bleeding is normal and should not be cause for concern. Patients should pay special attention to the extraction site to prevent infection.
To find out more about the dental services offered at North End Dental, call (719) 471-1900 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 1705 N Weber St, Colorado Springs, CO 80907.
