Extracting a tooth is a last resort, but there are times when it is necessary to maintain good oral health or to treat serious complications. An extraction may be suggested if you have a tooth severely damaged from decay or other trauma. An extraction may also be recommended if the wisdom teeth do not erupt properly and impact other teeth or cause an infection in the surrounding gums. By removing problem teeth, we can prevent the spread of infection to other healthy teeth and relieve pain and discomfort.

At Uptown Smiles, we are committed to providing you with the most comfortable experience possible. If you are anxious about an upcoming tooth extraction or have experienced pain from an impacted wisdom tooth, we can provide sedation dentistry to help you relax. We will do everything we can to help protect and preserve your smile, but sometimes a troublesome tooth must be removed to keep your whole mouth healthy.

Reasons for Dental Extractions

Severe Tooth Decay

When a tooth is extensively decayed, it may not be salvageable through restorative procedures such as fillings or root canal treatments. In such cases, extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection and preserve oral health.

Periodontal Disease

Advanced periodontal disease can lead to losing supporting bone structure around the tooth, causing it to become loose. Extracting the affected tooth may be necessary to prevent further damage to surrounding teeth and tissues.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often lack sufficient space to emerge properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infections, and damage to adjacent teeth. Extraction of impacted wisdom teeth is a common preventive measure.

Orthodontic Treatment

Sometimes, tooth extractions are performed as part of orthodontic treatment to create space for proper teeth alignment. This allows for the successful correction of crowded teeth or the alignment of the jaws.

The Dental Extraction Procedure

Local anesthesia is typically administered to numb the area around the tooth being extracted. Depending on the complexity of the extraction or individual preferences, sedation options like nitrous oxide or oral sedation may also help you feel more relaxed during the procedure. The dentist gently uses specialized instruments to loosen the tooth from its socket. The tooth may be rocked back and forth to widen the socket for easier removal. In some cases, a surgical extraction may be necessary, where the tooth is sectioned, or the gum tissue is incised to access the tooth. Once the tooth is removed, the dentist will clean the socket and remove any debris or infection.

Dental extractions promote oral health, alleviate pain or discomfort, prevent further dental problems, and enhance overall well-being. Visit Uptown Smiles at 601 NW 23rd St, Suite #200, Oklahoma City, OK 73103, or call (405) 702-7766 to determine if a dental extraction is necessary and to address any concerns you may have.