Tooth extractions are often done as a last resort or for trouble being caused by things like wisdom teeth. We want to do everything possible to save your natural tooth, but sometimes an extraction is best. Dr. Andrew C. Cobb, a dentist in Washington, D.C., helps you determine if you’ll need a tooth extraction.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
One of the most common forms of tooth extraction is removing the wisdom teeth. These molars usually develop in the late teens or early twenties. In many cases, the mouth isn’t big enough for these extra teeth and they cause problems with your smile.
They may develop oddly or cause your teeth to become overcrowded and cramped. We monitor these teeth with x-rays during your preventative care visits so we can remove them before they cause problems.
Tooth Trauma
When your tooth is damaged due to trauma, it’s important to get it checked out immediately. This is typically a case for emergency dentistry. Whether we remove the tooth or not depends on how bad the trauma is. In some cases, the tooth may only be hanging on by a thread, and it’s best to be removed.
Infection or Tooth Decay
When tooth decay is severe, more of your tooth may be decayed than healthy. When you have an infected tooth, we first check to see if it can be remedied by a root canal. If not, it’s time to remove it. Severe tooth decay also makes this necessary. We’ll take every measure to see if there’s a way to save your natural tooth before performing the extraction.
Overcrowded Teeth
Overcrowded teeth can cause pain and make it hard for you to clean in between your teeth. They can become crooked and jumbled. We may suggest a tooth extraction to help ease the crowding and allow the teeth the room they need. You may be referred to an orthodontist to make sure the teeth are fully corrected after the extraction.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Dr. Cobb will analyze the tooth and determine if extraction is the best thing for your oral health. While many people think extractions will be painful, we take all precautions to make sure that you’re comfortable throughout the process. We’ll use a local anesthetic to numb the area around your tooth. If you suffer from dental anxiety or some other conditions, sedation dentistry options can be provided.
Once you’re comfortable, Dr. Cobb will move any excess tissue around the tooth so that it’s easier to be removed. It’ll be rocked back and forth with a special tool, and slowly removed from your mouth when it’s loosened significantly. Gauze will be used to stop bleeding and dissolvable stitches will be used as well if they’re needed.
Tooth Extraction at Your Washington, D.C. Dentist
Do you have a tooth you think may have to be removed? Call us or schedule an appointment online.