At Homan Family Dentistry, a tooth may need to be extracted for several reasons, such as extensive decay or infection that reaches the tooth’s inner pulp. If the bacteria from the infection is not removed, it can spread to the rest of your mouth and increase your risk for further complications. Removing a tooth can also relieve severe crowding in your mouth when there is not enough room for your other teeth to grow straight. Replacing missing teeth is necessary to prevent the other teeth from shifting out of place and causing more problems. An extraction can also be performed to remove wisdom teeth that are impacted or cause pain, infections, or damage to surrounding teeth.

The Tooth Extraction Procedure

During the procedure, the oral surgeon will first administer anesthesia to help prevent the patient from feeling pain or discomfort. The dentist will use specialized instruments called elevators and forceps to loosen and remove the tooth from the socket.Following the extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon will provide instructions for post-operative care, including pain management, proper oral hygiene, and dietary restrictions. It is important to follow these instructions to promote healing and prevent complications. After extraction, the dentist may recommend socket preservation techniques, such as bone grafting, to maintain the shape and volume of the surrounding bone and facilitate future dental treatments like implant placement.

The Benefits of Tooth Extraction

Relieving Pain and Discomfort

Tooth extraction can be necessary when a tooth is severely decayed, infected, or damaged beyond repair. These conditions often cause persistent pain and discomfort. Extracting the affected tooth can alleviate the pain and prevent further complications.

Preventing the Spread of Infection

When a tooth is severely decayed or infected, the infection can spread to the surrounding teeth, gums, and even into the jawbone. Tooth extraction helps stop the spread of infection and prevents the development of more serious oral health issues.

Resolving Impacted Teeth

Impacted teeth are teeth that are blocked or unable to emerge through the gum line fully. This commonly occurs with wisdom teeth but can also happen with other teeth. Impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth. Extracting impacted teeth can prevent these complications.

Creating Space for Orthodontic Treatment

In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary to create sufficient space in the mouth for orthodontic treatment. Removing a tooth or multiple teeth can help address overcrowding, misalignment, or teeth protrusion. By creating the necessary space, orthodontic treatment can be more effective in achieving proper tooth alignment and bite correction.

Tooth extraction plays a crucial role in maintaining overall oral health. Removing damaged or diseased teeth reduces the risk of oral infections, inflammation, and other complications. Visit Homan Family Dentistry at 11840 NICHOLAS ST, STE. 210, Omaha, NE 68154, or call (402) 498-0400 to learn more about the benefits of teeth extractions.