Dental Extractions

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Dental Extractions

Dental extractions, also known as tooth extractions, refer to the removal of one or more teeth from the mouth. Here's a brief overview of dental extractions:

Purpose: Dental extractions are performed for various reasons, including:

Severe Tooth Decay:

When tooth decay is extensive, and the tooth cannot be saved with treatments like fillings or root canals, extraction may be necessary.

Advanced Gum Disease:

Periodontal (gum) disease can lead to tooth loosening and bone loss. In advanced cases, extraction may be required.

Orthodontic Treatment:

In some orthodontic cases, overcrowded teeth may need to be removed to create space for proper alignment.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth:

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often don't have enough space to emerge properly and may become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain and infection, necessitating extraction.

Broken or Fractured Teeth:

Severely broken or fractured teeth that can't be restored may need to be extracted.

Preventive Measures:

In some cases, preventive extraction of baby teeth may be recommended to facilitate the eruption of permanent teeth.

Types of Extractions:

  • Simple Extraction: This is the removal of a visible tooth above the gum line. It can be done with local anesthesia.
  • Surgical Extraction: This is a more complex procedure, often involving the removal of a tooth that has not fully erupted or is broken beneath the gum line. It may require surgical techniques, including incisions and bone removal. Conscious sedation or general anesthesia may be used.

Procedure:

  • Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth.
  • Extraction: The dentist or oral surgeon loosens the tooth in its socket and carefully removes it using specialized instruments.
  • Stitches: In the case of a surgical extraction, stitches may be required to close the incision.
  • Post-Extraction Care: The dentist provides instructions for post-extraction care, which may include pain management, swelling reduction, and guidelines for eating and oral hygiene.