Extractions
Wylie, Texas
Dental professionals generally endeavor to retain natural teeth when feasible, though circumstances sometimes necessitate removal. Two extraction approaches exist based on tooth damage severity.
Types of Extractions
Simple Extraction
A numbing agent is applied or injected at the extraction location. This method handles visible teeth using only an elevator and forceps.
Surgical Extraction
Performed under general anesthesia for teeth lacking easy access—whether unerupted or broken beneath the gum line. A gum incision provides surgeon access; surrounding bone or tooth portions may be removed to facilitate extraction.
Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction
- Decay - Remains the leading cause, progressing through enamel damage, inner deterioration, pulp chamber penetration, and potential root canal infection if untreated
- Periodontal disease - Deteriorates supporting structures, causing loosening and eventual tooth loss
- Crowding - Orthodontic treatment may necessitate extraction to create alignment space
- Impaction - Impacted wisdom teeth frequently require removal when jaw size cannot accommodate them
- Fracture - Fractured teeth at or near the gum line often resist restoration attempts, necessitating extraction
- Retained baby teeth - May need removal if they don't fall out naturally
