Your teeth are incredibly strong and can withstand a significant amount of daily wear and tear. Despite being the strongest substance in your body, though, they can still be faced with physical damage or decay. The ideal solution for damaged teeth is to restore them, which helps to prevent further damage and infections. If the damage is too severe, though, it may not be possible to save the tooth. In such a case, the tooth needs to be extracted. Following an extraction, replacing the tooth is important. Implant & Periodontal Associates NW in Richland can perform necessary tooth extractions and replace extracted teeth with dental implants.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
Simply put, a tooth extraction is when we remove a tooth from your mouth. However, when it comes to extracting teeth, there are two different types of tooth extraction surgeries:
"Simple" Tooth Extraction
A simple extraction is a fairly straightforward procedure that is done under local anesthetic. The extraction begins with a tool called an elevator. This tool separates the gums and periodontal ligament from the tooth. Next, the tooth is gripped with forceps and moved back and forth in the socket to widen the ligament further. Once the tooth is loose enough, it is lifted out.
"Surgical" Tooth Extraction
A surgical extraction is a more involved procedure that is done in more complex situations. This procedure is done under a local anesthetic and sedation. A surgical extraction begins with a small incision in your gums, exposing the root of the tooth and surrounding bone. Next, the tooth is removed. Depending upon your situation, some bone may be removed, or the teeth may be sectioned and removed in pieces. Once the tooth has been completely removed, the socket is cleaned, and the surgical incisions are sutured closed.
Why do Teeth Need to be Extracted?
Ideally, damaged teeth are restored, allowing them to stay in their sockets. However, there are certain situations in which you may require extraction. Reasons for an extraction include:
| • | Severely decay teeth. |
| • | Cracks below the gumline. |
| • | Teeth that have shattered or split completely in half. |
Though we make every effort to preserve a patient's natural smile, sometimes teeth have to be removed. Common reasons include severe decay and damage, advanced periodontal disease, or poor tooth position (impaction). Teeth are also sometimes pulled in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
How is the Tooth Extraction Procedure Performed?
In an extraction procedure, we begin by numbing the area with a local anesthetic. This prevents the nerves from transferring pain signals. However, patients may feel pressure as we widen the socket to allow for removal. Some teeth require sectioning, a very common procedure when the tooth root is curved, or so firmly anchored into its socket that it can't be removed in one piece. In this case, the doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections, then extracts it one section one at a time.
Why Should I Replace an Extracted Tooth?
Extracting a tooth can help to restore your oral health and your quality of life. However, without the tooth, you may be faced with difficulty eating and speaking. Your smile may be impacted. Your jawbone also begins to lose bone mass, which causes the adjacent teeth to begin to shift out of alignment. With a dental implant, you are provided with a perfect restoration of your smile. The implant also helps to improve the functions of your missing tooth and protect the health of your jawbone.
Can Dental Implants Replace Extracted Teeth?
Following a tooth extraction, we can replace your missing tooth with a dental implant. An implant is a modern-day solution for replacing a missing tooth. Treatment consists of a titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone. During the recovery process, your jawbone gradually fuses to the post. This is a natural process called osseointegration. When this process is complete, the post becomes a strong, stable root that provides support for your replacement tooth.
Do You Have Questions About About Extractions or Implants?
Replacing an extracted tooth allows your mouth to continue to function normally and helps to preserve your beautiful, confident smile. With a dental implant, we also help to stop and prevent bone loss in your jaw. For more information on tooth extractions and dental implants, call Implant & Periodontal Associates NW in Richland at (509) 542-9111 today.
