A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While preserving natural teeth is always the priority, there are situations where removing a tooth is necessary to protect your oral health and prevent further complications. Tooth extractions are commonly performed when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed or poses a risk to the surrounding teeth and tissues.
Reasons for Tooth Extractions
Our dentists may recommend a tooth extraction for several reasons, including:
- Severe Decay or Infection: When a tooth is extensively decayed or infected, it can compromise the surrounding teeth and gum tissue. If the damage is beyond repair with a filling, crown or root canal therapy, extraction may be the best solution.
- Periodontal Disease: Advanced gum disease can weaken the supporting bone structure, causing teeth to become loose. In some cases, extraction is necessary to prevent the spread of infection and maintain oral health.
- Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth, in particular, can become impacted, meaning they do not fully erupt through the gums. Impacted teeth can lead to pain, swelling and misalignment of adjacent teeth, making extraction the best course of action.
- Overcrowding: In some orthodontic cases, tooth extractions are needed to create space and achieve proper alignment of the remaining teeth. This is often done to facilitate orthodontic treatment such as braces or clear aligners.
- Trauma or Injury: Teeth that are severely fractured due to trauma may not be salvageable and might need to be removed to prevent further damage to the mouth.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Your comfort is a priority during the extraction procedure. Before the extraction begins, our dentists will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area and ensure you do not feel discomfort. For more complex extractions, such as impacted wisdom teeth, sedation options may be available to help you feel more relaxed.
Once the tooth is removed, our dentists and team will provide post-operative care instructions to support proper healing. This may include guidelines for managing discomfort, avoiding certain foods and maintaining oral hygiene to prevent infection.
Aftercare and Tooth Replacement Options
After a tooth extraction, it is important to follow your post-op instructions to promote healing and avoid complications such as dry socket or infection. If the extracted tooth needs to be replaced, Dr. Rob Semtner, Dr. Mona Semtner or Dr. Adam Holt will discuss suitable options, such as dental implants, bridges or partial dentures, to restore your smile’s function and appearance.
If you have any concerns about tooth extractions in Roanoke, Virginia, or would like to discuss your treatment options, please contact Semtner Dental at 540-989-0112 to schedule a consultation with our experienced dentists. Our team is here to provide compassionate care and help you achieve optimal oral health.