Tooth Extraction

Why would I need an extraction?

Even though permanent teeth are made to last your lifetime, it doesn't always happen. For example, you could need a tooth extracted because it is too severely damaged to keep. Lifestyle choices, trauma, and decay can all lead to needing a tooth pulled.

Extractions may be necessary for other reasons, including:

• Risk of infection from a failed root canal
• Risk of infection during chemotherapy or an organ transplant
• Advanced periodontal (gum) disease
• Crowded or extra teeth
• No room for wisdom teeth (third molars)

What should I expect from an extraction procedure?

There are two types of extraction procedures: a simple extraction and a surgical extraction. When you can see the tooth inside your mouth, it’s called a simple extraction. In a simple extraction, Dr. Livingston will loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator and gently remove it with dental forceps.

A surgical extraction is a bit more complicated. The tooth may not have fully grown into the mouth, as is typical with wisdom teeth, or it may be broken off at the gum line. In these cases, Dr. Livingston makes a small incision in your gum to remove the tooth. It may be necessary to remove some of the bone around your tooth as well so it can be thoroughly extracted.

In both a simple extraction and surgical extraction, Dr. Livingston gives you a local anesthetic, so you don’t feel any pain. If multiple teeth are extracted at the same time, as is routine with wisdom teeth extraction, he may give you a general anesthetic. You'll sleep and be pain-free throughout the whole procedure.

When will I be fully healed from a tooth extraction?

While it's contingent on your particular case and the number of teeth you had removed, the first stages of the healing process usually occur within one or two weeks. New bone and gum tissue will slowly replace the areas where your teeth were removed. It's possible you could have trouble chewing or experience other pain and discomfort as you recover, depending on the scope of your dental operation.

Because everyone's circumstances are different, contact Dental Care Center of Decatur to schedule a consultation to explore your options and any important follow-up treatments like dental implants or crowns.

Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.