Extractions

Some of the most common reasons why a tooth extraction may be necessary include:

• Crowded teeth: In some cases, teeth may be overcrowded, particularly when there is not enough space in the mouth to accommodate all teeth properly. Extracting one or more teeth can help to align the remaining teeth and improve bite and function, particularly before orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign.
• Problematic wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are often the cause of dental issues as they may not have enough space to emerge properly, causing them to become impacted or partially erupted. This can lead to pain, infection, or damage to surrounding teeth, making their extraction a common and sometimes necessary procedure.
• Broken or severely damaged teeth: Teeth that have suffered extensive damage due to decay, trauma, or fractures may no longer be salvageable through fillings, crowns, or root canals. In such cases, extracting the tooth may be the best option to preserve the health of surrounding teeth and prevent further complications.
• Severe gum disease: If gum disease (periodontitis) has advanced to a point where it has damaged the tissues and bone that support your teeth, extraction may be needed to prevent the spread of infection and protect your overall oral health.

Deep infections: Sometimes, a tooth may become infected beyond the point where it can be treated with antibiotics or a root canal. In such cases, extracting the infected tooth may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading to other areas of the mouth or body.

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

When you come in for a tooth extraction, your comfort and well-being are our top priority. First, our experienced dental team will administer a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. This ensures that you won’t feel any pain during the procedure, though you may experience some pressure or vibration as the tooth is loosened and removed.

In certain cases, we may also recommend sedation options, such as oral sedatives or nitrous oxide (laughing gas), to help you relax if you’re feeling anxious about the procedure. We’ll explain all of your options beforehand so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for you.

Once the area is numb, the dentist will carefully loosen the tooth from its socket using specialized instruments. The tooth is then gently removed. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, it may take a few minutes or require more time for teeth that are impacted or difficult to remove. In some cases, if the tooth is broken or if the tooth root is deeply embedded, we may need to remove the tooth in sections.

Aftercare and Recovery

After the extraction, our team will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. This may include advice on managing swelling and discomfort, such as applying ice packs to the outside of the mouth, and taking over-the-counter pain medications if necessary. It’s also important to follow guidelines for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene to avoid any complications during your recovery.

While some discomfort is normal after an extraction, most patients recover quickly. If you experience any unusual symptoms or severe pain, don’t hesitate to contact us for advice.

If you’re in need of a tooth extraction, we’re here to help make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Book an appointment today by calling 780-484-8138. Our friendly and knowledgeable dental team will guide you through the procedure and answer any questions you may have, ensuring you feel confident and well-informed every step of the way.