Tooth Extractions
Portland, OR
 Your teeth are incredibly strong. They perform some essential tasks every day and stand up to a significant amount of use. Despite their strength, however, they can still be faced with issues such as damage or decay, which compromise both their structural integrity and your oral health. When the teeth are damaged, the preferred solution is to restore them. This is not always possible, however. If your teeth cannot be saved, Sylvan Heights Dental can perform an extraction.
Effects of Tooth Damage
When your teeth suffer damage or decay, it is important to seek dental treatment right away. Even minor tooth damage should be addressed. Damage and decay can compromise the strength of the teeth, leaving them susceptible to further harm such as splitting or breaking. The health of your mouth is also compromised, and you may develop a tooth infection. Immediately addressing tooth damage is essential for preventing these serious issues from developing.
Is an Extraction Necessary?
Ideally, damaged or decayed teeth are saved. This can be done in a variety of different ways, including fillings, crowns, or a root canal. However, there are some situations in which these treatments may not be possible. Instead, extraction is the best solution for restoring your oral health. Tooth extraction may be required in situations such as:
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Tooth fractures below the gum line.
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Teeth that are shattered or that have split in half.
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Your teeth are significantly decayed. |
You may also require a tooth extraction if you are faced with issues such as:
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Overcrowding.
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Impacted wisdom teeth. |
Types of Extractions
When faced with tooth damage, a thorough oral exam is performed. We take a look at the teeth and take digital x-rays. Your examination allows us to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best solution to meet your needs.
If extraction is recommended, there are two different types that may be performed. Simple tooth extraction is, as the name suggests, a simple, straightforward procedure. It is typically performed under a local anesthetic. A tool called an elevator loosens the periodontal ligament and gum tissue from around the tooth. Next, forceps are used to loosen the tooth further and lift it free.
A surgical extraction is recommended in more complex cases, such as damage below the gum line or impacted wisdom teeth. This procedure is more involved. It is performed under a local anesthetic. Sedation may also be provided to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Surgery begins with small incisions in your gums to expose the roots of the affected teeth and the bone around them. We then work to remove the tooth. The tooth may need to be sectioned, or broken into pieces, for complete removal. A small amount of bone may also need to be removed. After the teeth have been completely removed, the sockets are cleaned, and your surgical wounds are closed.
While saving damaged or decayed teeth may be preferable, it is not always possible. Extractions can help to restore your oral health and prevent serious issues from developing. After you have healed from your extractions, your teeth can then be replaced. For more information, and to schedule your appointment, call Sylvan Heights Dental today at (503) 297-1471.
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