An extraction is a procedure that involves removing a tooth from the mouth. An extraction may be a necessary treatment if you’ve lost a tooth due to trauma or decay. Some patients choose to extract their teeth for cosmetic reasons rather than undergo orthodontic treatment to straighten them. If you are considering having one or more teeth removed, our dental team at Dental 2000, will likely take x-rays of your teeth beforehand to ensure there are no underlying issues that complicate the procedure. 

Why Is an Extraction Needed?

Occasionally, a tooth is so severely damaged by decay or trauma that it cannot be repaired with fillings or crowns. In these cases, an extraction may be the best option for restoring the health and function of your oral cavity. Our dentist will examine your smile and determine your most effective treatment plan when you come in for your consultation. After your procedure is complete, we will go over the ways you can protect your smile in the future. With good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day, you can prevent plaque buildup, leading to tooth decay and the need for more invasive dental treatments. It is also important to attend routine checkups and professional cleanings with your dentist to maintain a healthy smile and detect oral health issues in their earliest stages. 

The Types of Dental Extractions

Surgical Extractions

A surgical extraction is usually required for a tooth broken below the gum line or impacted. It is also used for teeth that are loose due to gum disease. The dentist will numb the area and remove the tooth during this procedure. Recovery usually takes a few days, with pain and swelling being the most common side effects.

Simple Extractions

A simple extraction is performed on teeth that still fully erupted above the gum line but have become broken or damaged. Your dentist will use an elevator instrument to loosen the tooth before pulling it out. This type of extraction does not involve the use of an anesthetic, so you will be able to drive home after this appointment. If you have impacted wisdom teeth, a simple extraction may be done instead of surgical removal. However, in some cases, the oral surgeon will need to perform the surgical removal instead. Recovery time for simple extractions is relatively short, with patients usually returning to their routine within a day or two.

Modern dentistry techniques have made tooth extraction safer than ever before. Visit Dental 2000 at 39 Creek Rd Suite #210, Irvine, CA 92604, or call (949) 857-6757 to learn more about tooth extraction.