Tooth Extractions
Sometimes, protecting your smile means letting go of what’s causing pain. With the gentle precision of Happy Tooth, extraction can go smoothly and calmly, so you can get feeling better as soon as possible.
Why You Might Need Tooth Extraction
Having a tooth extracted might sound intimidating. However, in some cases, tooth extraction can pave the way to better oral health and help you avoid further pain, infection, or complications.
What Is Tooth Extraction For?
Tooth extraction is when a tooth and its attached root is removed from its socket in the bone. This is usually a last resort after other treatment options have been exhausted or ruled out. In certain cases, extraction may be the best way to preserve oral health or alleviate pain. Common reasons for extraction are:
Severe Decay:
When a tooth is extensively decayed and cannot be restored with a filling, crown, or root canal, extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection.
Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis):
Severe gum disease can loosen teeth by damaging the bone and soft tissues that support them. In some cases, extraction can stop further damage to surrounding teeth and gums.
Impaction:
Wisdom teeth or other teeth that fail to fully emerge from the gumline or grow at improper angles can cause pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth, warranting removal.
Overcrowding:
When there is not enough space in the mouth for all teeth to align properly, extractions might be recommended before orthodontic treatment.
Trauma or Injury:
Teeth that are severely damaged from accidents or injuries and cannot be repaired with crowns or other restorative measures may need to be extracted.
Infection or Abscess:
A tooth with an infection that doesn’t respond to antibiotics or root canal treatment may need to be extracted to protect surrounding teeth and tissues.
Preparation for Replacement:
Severely damaged or decayed teeth may be extracted to prepare for individual replacement or broader rehabilitation with dentures or implants.
Baby Teeth That Don’t Fall Out:
In children, baby teeth that don’t fall out on their own can interfere with the proper eruption of permanent teeth and may need extraction.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Happy Tooth performs tooth extractions in Elmhurst. But first, we’ll weigh the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes to determine if extraction is necessary for you.
Prior to extraction, we’ll also evaluate your oral and overall health. Certain medical conditions, like bleeding disorders or specific medications, may require additional care or preparation to ensure a smooth recovery. We will discuss this at your consultation.
There are four basic phases to tooth extraction:
1. Consultation & Exam
At your consultation, we’ll do a thorough review of your medical history. Then, using digital x-rays. intraoral cameras or CBCT, we’ll assess the condition of the tooth and surrounding structures to determine the best course of action. We’ll also explain the extraction process and answer your questions.
2. Preparation
On the day of your extraction, we’ll make you comfortable with local anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction. We perform both simple extractions for visible teeth and surgical extractions for teeth that are impacted or broken off at the gumline.
3. Extraction
For a simple extraction, we’ll gently loosen the tooth before carefully removing it. For surgical extractions, we’ll make a small incision in the gumline to access the tooth.
4. Aftercare
Once the tooth is removed, we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing. This includes instructions for managing discomfort, protecting the extraction site, and resuming normal activities.
The Benefits of Tooth Extraction
Pain Relief:
Extracting a damaged, failing, or infected tooth can eliminate discomfort and prevent further complications.
Resolving Infection:
Extraction may be key to stopping the spread of decay or disease, and preserving your oral and overall health.
Improving Alignment:
Removing overcrowded teeth can create space for orthodontic treatment or improve bite function.
Protecting Other Teeth:
Extraction can reduce the strain on surrounding teeth and prevent future damage.
Why Choose Happy Tooth for Tooth Extractions in Elmhurst?
At Happy Tooth, your smile matters to us. Sometimes, that means a tooth should be extracted. In every case, we’re committed to patient-centered care. We will do everything in our power to make your tooth extraction comfortable and successful, so you can get back to the things you love.
What Should I Do Next?
If you think you might need a tooth extraction, don’t wait—let’s meet to determine if tooth extraction is best for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
