Extractions Specialist

Why would I need a tooth extraction?

While every dentist’s goal is to keep a patient’s natural teeth intact, there are situations when extracting a tooth is necessary. When a tooth is extracted, the space needs to be filled somehow, so a further dental procedure is often required.

Deep Decay

The most common reason for a tooth extraction is tooth decay that affects the surface of the tooth and the pulp. In these instances, the tooth cannot be saved through a root canal, as the general structure of the tooth needs to be stable for that procedure.

Extra Teeth

While there are a variety of situations where a patient may have extra teeth, most frequently, the excess teeth are baby teeth that aren’t falling out. The remaining teeth may twist out of place, with extra teeth filling the mouth. Extracting teeth allows the new teeth to come in correctly.

Periodontal Disease

Advanced periodontal or gum disease can cause the gums and underlying bone of the mouth to erode. When this happens, teeth can no longer sit securely in the mouth and must be extracted. If the bone density is poor, the tooth can rarely be saved.

Fractured Teeth

Dentists can typically save fractured teeth through a root canal procedure. However, in some cases the nature of the fracture means that the tooth has to be removed. 

How are tooth extractions performed?

Many tooth extractions are simple procedures. When performing an extraction on a fully emerged tooth, your dentist numbs the area with a local anesthetic before elevating the tooth with instruments and severing the periodontal ligament. They then remove the tooth using dental forceps. 

If a tooth is inaccessible or not visible, like wisdom teeth that have yet to emerge, then the extraction is a surgical procedure. An incision is made in the gum, and the tooth is removed. Surgical extractions are usually performed under general anesthesia.

How much do tooth extractions cost?

While this is a frequent question, it doesn’t have a set answer. Determining the cost of a tooth extraction depends on various factors, and all of those factors require a dental exam. The type of tooth (molar, incisor, etc.), the tooth's condition, the tooth’s location, and any previous procedures performed on the tooth all affect the cost.

If you believe you need a tooth extraction, call or book an appointment online with William Lessne, D.D.S. & Bilal Chaudhry D.D.S. today. Upon a dental exam, we can discuss your options for treating or extracting the tooth and alleviating your pain.