Extractions Specialist

When is a tooth extraction necessary?

While your permanent teeth are naturally strong and resilient, sometimes it’s necessary to remove them. Some common reasons for an extraction are overcrowding or infection. Infection can happen due to bacteria from periodontal disease or a cracked tooth.

In some cases, it’s also necessary to do a bone graft at the time of extraction. This procedure involves implanting bone material into the existing tooth socket to help stimulate the growth of new bone. It’s often necessary before getting an implant or another type of restoration.

How does an extraction work?

Before your tooth extraction, your dentist at Willow Glen Dental Center numbs the treatment area with an anesthetic injection. This ensures you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.

Depending on the location and size of the tooth, your dentist might need to remove some gum or bone tissue to access the base of the tooth. Using small forceps, your dentist grasps the tooth and gently wiggles it until it comes loose from the jaw bone. If the tooth is hard to remove, they might need to gently remove it in small pieces, one at a time.

If you’re getting a bone graft procedure with the extraction, your dentist implants small pieces of bone material into the empty tooth socket.

Your dentist uses gauze for any bleeding at the site of the extraction and may also stitch the surrounding area to help it heal.

What can I expect after a tooth extraction?

Like any wound, a tooth extraction takes time to heal. You might experience some swelling, pain, or sensitivity for several days. Your dentist may recommend a specific diet, special brushing and flossing guidelines, or other follow-up instructions.

The healing process usually takes about 1-2 weeks. As new bone and gum tissue grow into the extraction site, your dentist monitors your oral health and recommends the next steps. That may include replacing the missing tooth with an implant or denture to prevent structural problems from arising.

Although it’s not ideal to lose a permanent tooth, if more conservative treatments have failed, an extraction may be your best option to prevent the spread of infection. With the wide variety of restoration procedures available, the team at Willow Glen Dental Center can restore a healthy, functional smile after the extraction wound has healed.

To learn more about tooth extractions and bone grafting procedures, call Willow Glen Dental Center today or book a consultation online.