Extractions

Understanding the Process of Tooth Extraction at Peoria Dental Care

Dental extractions, commonly referred to as “extractions,” are dental procedures in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. Extractions are performed for various reasons, including severe tooth decay, advanced gum disease, trauma, overcrowding, orthodontic treatment, or the presence of impacted wisdom teeth. While dentists strive to preserve natural teeth whenever possible, extractions become necessary when a tooth is beyond repair or poses a risk to oral health.

Here’s an overview of the dental extraction process:

Assessment and Diagnosis: Before performing an extraction, the dentist will assess the tooth’s condition using visual examination, X-rays, and sometimes additional imaging. The doctor will present options to the patient determine if extraction is the best course of action and develop a treatment plan based on the patient’s needs.
Anesthesia: Prior to the procedure, the patient is usually given local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. This ensures that the extraction is pain-free and comfortable.
Tooth Loosening: The dentist uses special instruments to gently loosen the tooth from its socket. In some cases, the tooth might already be loose due to decay or gum disease.
Extraction: Depending on the tooth’s condition and position, the extraction may be a simple extraction or a surgical extraction.
- Simple Extraction: A tooth that is visible in the mouth and has erupted can often be removed using forceps. The dentist applies controlled pressure to the tooth until it is loosened and can be lifted out.
- Surgical Extraction: Teeth that are impacted (unable to fully erupt) or broken below the gumline may require surgical extraction. This procedure involves making a small incision in the gum tissue and possibly removing some bone around the tooth before extracting it.
Stitches and Gauze: After the tooth is extracted, the dentist might place stitches to close the incision if it is a surgical extraction. Gauze is placed over the extraction site to control bleeding and promote clot formation.
Recovery and Aftercare: The patient is given post-extraction instructions, including guidelines for caring for the extraction site, managing pain, and avoiding certain activities like eating hard or crunchy foods.
Healing: The extraction site heals over time, and a blood clot forms to protect the underlying bone and tissue. Over a period of weeks, the site will gradually fill in with new bone and tissue.
Possible Replacement: In some cases, the extracted tooth might be replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or denture to restore function and appearance.

Dental extractions are typically performed when preserving the tooth is not feasible or when removing the tooth is necessary to maintain overall oral health. Dentists consider various factors, including the patient’s overall health, the tooth’s condition, and potential alternatives, when determining if an extraction is the best course of action.