Tooth extraction can seem very scary. This is often seen as a drastic measure, where no other choice is possible. While it often occurs when the tooth is severely damaged by caries, it can also be required for orthodontic reasons or even for specific reasons, such as impaction where there is not enough space for the tooth to fully erupt. Abscesses may also require extraction due to the presence of infection .
In this article, we will explain the biggest reasons for extraction of teeth, while also giving you a break down on how the tooth is extracted. We hope that it will give you peace of mind in knowing what to expect if your dentist has advised a tooth extraction.
Why do You Need Tooth Extraction?
First things first, why exactly would you need an extraction? As we briefly mentioned above, there are three primary reasons that a tooth might be extracted. These include the following:
Advanced caries or gum disease. If you have a very deep hole approaching the nerve in your tooth, or you are suffering from oral disease that is causing problems with your teeth, or an acute or chronic abscess that is causing pressure beneath the tooth, your dentist may decide that extraction is the best measure. Dental implants may not be possible if there is not sufficient dental matter to attach to implants. Likewise, very serious caries cannot be filled if there is not enough tooth matter.
Orthodontic reasons. If your teeth are too crowded on your jaw, your dentist may suggest an extraction. Wisdom teeth are often removed for this reason, but older teeth towards that back of the mouth may also be removed if they are causing problems with spacing.
Impacted or problem teeth. Another reason that a tooth might be extracted is if it is causing problems for surrounding teeth. Impacted teeth, including wisdoms and molars, can cause surrounding teeth to become deformed if they are pushing against teeth or not erupting properly.
How is Tooth Extraction Done?
Now that we know WHY a tooth is extracted, how is it done? Tooth extraction in Durban can be relatively quick and painless, or it may require minor surgery. Either way, this is not as traumatic as it seems. Typical procedures include the following:
- After the gums and surrounding tissue have been numbed using a local anaesthetic, a special type of forceps tool is used. This tool allows the tooth to be removed using pressure, first by loosening the tooth in the jaw, and then by extracting it completely, roots and all.
- Another method may include the use of an elevator that is placed between the tooth and the tooth socket. The tooth is then loosened and pulled out as the elevator lever is rotated.
- If the tooth is impacted or damaged, surgical removal may be required. The gum over the tooth is cut and elevated, and bone is exposed to access the root. The root is then removed, and the socket is cleaned and sutured.
Here at Gateway Dental, our dentists work hard to provide patients with all the comfort they need. Our advance patient comfort technology is designed to minimise the stress of procedures such as extraction. Find out more about tooth extraction in Durban, contact us today.
