While we try to preserve the natural tooth structure whenever possible, there are occasions when extracting a tooth is best for your oral health. With advancements in dentistry, this general dental service is faster and more comfortable than ever. We employ the best anesthetics and offer sedation dentistry to ensure you’re comfortable throughout your procedure.
Tooth Extraction in Marshall, TX
For a simple tooth extraction, we numb the entire area around the tooth so that you feel no pain during the procedure. If you’re nervous, we offer sedation options to ensure you’re relaxed and comfortable. The dentist uses an elevator tool to gently loosen the tooth from its socket. It’s rocked back and forth to break the connection between the tooth and the jawbone until it’s loose enough to remove completely.
Then, we clean the socket and use gauze to help stop the bleeding. In some cases, we’ll suture the area shut, too. We’ll provide aftercare instructions to prevent dry socket and other conditions.
In some cases, like with impacted wisdom teeth, you’ll require surgical extraction. Infected teeth and teeth that are difficult to remove also require this. When we do this, we make an incision in the tissue to access the tooth. We may also break the tooth into pieces to remove it effectively.
Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
One common reason for tooth extraction is severe tooth decay. When a tooth is affected by decay, bacteria can spread and cause an infection in the pulp. In some cases, the infection can be treated with a root canal, but if the decay is too extensive, the tooth may need to be extracted to prevent the infection from spreading further.
Another reason for tooth extraction is periodontal disease, a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bones that support the teeth. If left untreated, the disease can cause the teeth to become loose and eventually fall out. In some cases, a tooth may need to be extracted to prevent the spread of the infection to other teeth.
Impacted wisdom teeth are another common reason for tooth extraction. Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, they often do not have enough room to fully emerge and become impacted, causing pain, swelling, and possible infection. In these cases, the impacted wisdom teeth may need to be extracted to alleviate the pain and prevent further complications.
Sometimes, a tooth may need to be extracted due to overcrowding in the mouth. When there is not enough space for all of the teeth to properly align, it can lead to crowding, misalignment, and other dental issues. In these cases, a tooth may need to be extracted to create more space and allow the remaining teeth to align properly.
Trauma or injury to a tooth can also necessitate extraction. If a tooth is severely fractured or broken, it may not be able to be saved and may need to be extracted to prevent further damage to the surrounding teeth and tissues. Additionally, a tooth that has been knocked out due to trauma may also need to be extracted if it cannot be re-implanted.
There are also cases where a tooth may need to be extracted in preparation for orthodontic treatment. Sometimes, a tooth may need to be removed to create space for the remaining teeth to shift and align properly during treatment.
Simple Vs. Complex Tooth Extraction
There are two different kinds of tooth distraction. Each case is unique, and we’ll determine which one you require.
Simple Extractions
Using local anesthesia, simple tooth extraction is a relatively straightforward procedure in a dentist’s office. This type of extraction is typically performed on a tooth visible in the mouth and can be easily grasped and removed using forceps. The dentist will start by numbing the area around the tooth with an injection of local anesthetic to minimize pain or discomfort during the procedure.
Once the area is numb, the dentist will use an elevator tool to gently loosen the tooth from its socket. They will then use forceps to grasp the tooth and carefully wiggle it back and forth until it comes out. Sometimes, the dentist may need to make small incisions in the gum tissue to access the tooth, but this is usually a quick and simple process.
Simple extractions are generally quick, with minimal bleeding and discomfort. Most patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. The healing process is usually straightforward, with the socket filling in with new bone and gum tissue within a few weeks.
Complex Extractions
On the other hand, complex tooth extraction is a more involved procedure that may require oral surgery and general anesthesia. This type of extraction is typically needed for teeth that are impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gum line and cannot be easily accessed. If left untreated, impacted teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth, making extraction necessary.
Complex extractions may also be necessary for teeth that are severely broken, decayed, curved, or have multiple roots. In these cases, the dentist or oral surgeon may need to section the tooth into smaller pieces and remove them individually to minimize trauma to the surrounding tissues.
Before a complex extraction, the dentist typically takes a detailed medical history and performs a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the tooth’s position and condition. This information helps the dentist plan the best approach for the extraction and minimize the risk of complications.
During a complex extraction, the patient will be given general anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The dentist or oral surgeon may need to make incisions in the gum tissue, remove bone around the tooth, and carefully separate it from the surrounding tissues to extract it safely.
Complex extractions can take longer and be more uncomfortable than simple extractions, but they are often necessary to maintain oral health and prevent further complications. The healing process may also be longer and more involved, with the patient needing to follow specific instructions for post-operative care to ensure proper healing.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Many teens and young adults require wisdom tooth extraction. The last molars in the back of our mouths don’t develop until the ages of 17-25. Often, our mouths aren’t big enough for this extra set of molars, requiring extraction. It’s also common for wisdom teeth to be impacted in the jaw.
Impaction occurs when teeth don’t have enough room to even erupt. They can grow at an angle or remain stuck in the jawbone, under the surface, causing pain and swelling in the area. If a tooth only emerges halfway, a flap of tissue develops, a perfect trap for food and bacteria. The infection that results from it can cause swelling and pain, too, making it difficult to open your mouth properly.
Wisdom tooth extraction usually requires a surgical extraction. We sedate you throughout the process, so you aren’t aware of what we’re doing or have any memory of the procedure. You’ll have sutures to assist the healing process, which normally takes about a week. We give you a dietary list and cleaning instructions to prevent infection.
Schedule a Consultation
Dental extraction may be the best solution for your oral health. Call us or schedule an appointment online to get started.