Tooth Extraction

Although your dentist will make every effort to save your tooth, there are times when a dental extraction is the best solution.

Extraction may be necessary for a variety of reasons, including decay, infection, breakage, overcrowding, and gum disease.

Many patients go to their dentist in pain. It can be a welcome relief to know the source of the pain is about to be permanently removed. However, it’s also very normal to feel nervous about tooth extraction, especially if you suffer from dental phobia or anxiety.

The following are examples of different types of extractions to assist you in being more informed and confident about the procedure.

Surgical Tooth Extraction

A surgical tooth extraction is required when the tooth is not visible above the gum line because it is unerupted or has broken off. This procedure is more complex and involves making an incision in the gum to remove the tooth. A suture may be required after this procedure. You will then be asked to return to your dentist around 10 days later for suture removal.

If you’ve recently undergone a surgical tooth extraction, it is important to follow your dentist’s post-operative care instructions carefully. This will assist the healing process and greatly reduce the chances of a post-tooth extraction infection.

Tooth Extraction doesn’t have to be painful

Recent developments in pain control mean that tooth extraction doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience. Local anaesthetic will be used to numb the area beforehand. In most cases, your dentist can also apply numbing cream, so you don’t have to feel the local anaesthetic being administered.

For patients who are anxious about the possibility of tooth extraction pain, your dentist can also provide anti-anxiety medication or IV sedation. Many patients choose our oral anti-anxiolytic medication one hour prior to surgery. This allows our patients to have the procedure feeling relaxed and comfortable.

Immediate Implant Placement

Under the advice of your dentist, you may choose to replace the tooth with a dental implant, which may be done at the same time as the extraction in a process known as immediate implant placement. Immediate implant placement is a recent development in dentistry, and it can reduce the number of surgical interventions required and assist the healing process.

When bone grafting is required, this may also be done at the time of the extraction. Bone grafting involves the following:

• Replacement of bone to fill the site created by the removal of the tooth. This will ensure that there will be sufficient bone for a future implant;

OR

• Replacement of bone to fill the gap between the site created by the removal of the tooth and the immediate implant

Jaw Pain and TMJ

Sometimes your jaw pain may not be related to your tooth. A TMJ disorder can be painful and significantly impact your oral health, sleep, and overall well-being if not properly addressed. If you suspect you may have Temporomandibular Joint dysfunction, it is crucial to consult with an Aria Dental dentist, who will assess and recommend the most appropriate TMD treatment for you. They can quickly remove your pain quickly, and restore comfort and function to your jaw.