Tooth Extractions

At our practice, we prioritize preserving your natural teeth whenever possible, as they play a crucial role in your overall oral health and function. However, when a tooth cannot be saved due to certain conditions, extraction may become necessary. 

Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction:

  • Severe tooth decay that compromises the structure of the tooth beyond repair.
  • Advanced periodontal disease that has damaged the bone or supporting tissues.
  • Irreparable fractures or breaks in a tooth.
  • Poor positioning in the mouth, such as impacted teeth.
  • Preparation for orthodontic treatment to create space or improve alignment.

Potential Consequences of Tooth Loss:

The removal of even a single tooth can lead to issues such as:

  • Difficulty chewing.
  • Problems with your jaw joint (TMJ).
  • Shifting of surrounding teeth, which can affect alignment and overall dental health.

To avoid these complications, Dr. Peoples, Dr. Oghalai, or Dr. Krutoy will explore all possible alternatives to tooth extraction first. If extraction is necessary, they will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan and discuss replacement options, such as dental implants, to maintain the health, function, and appearance of your smile.

The Tooth Extraction Process

At the time of extraction the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jaw bone and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic. Other anesthetic options may be available to you, if needed. Please be sure to discuss these options with your surgeon.

During the extraction process you will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of firmly rocking the tooth in order to widen the socket for removal.

You feel the pressure without pain as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected.

If you do feel pain at any time during the extraction please let us know right away.

Some teeth require sectioning. This is a very common procedure done when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. The doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time.

After Tooth Extraction

For details on home care after tooth extraction, see the page “After Extractions” under “Surgical Instructions“.