Tooth Extractions

It is evident that retention of teeth is nearly always better than extraction. However, there are some circumstances in which extraction is the best treatment.

The main reasons why a tooth or teeth may be removed are:

1. Extensive damage to the tooth – this could relate to damage caused by decay or trauma

2. Periodontal disease – if periodontal disease is not treated properly, it can result it bone loss around the tooth’s root

3. Preventing the spread of disease – complications from badly diseased teeth can spread the infection through the blood or result in an infection or abscess

4. Improve the appearance – extractions may be needed for orthodontic treatment or to help with overcrowding

5. Teeth with no function – if a tooth does not have an opposing partner, it may be better removed

6. Cracks in a tooth root

It is important to weigh up all the pros and cons before extracting a tooth. Discussing your options with our dentists will help with your concerns. Every effort is made to help preserve your natural teeth as they can function better than artificial teeth. A missing tooth can cause nearby teeth to move out of their normal position and tilt towards the gap. This can cause issues with cleaning your teeth, increase the risk of decay and difficulty with chewing. A bridge, denture or implant may be necessary to avoid this issue. Most tooth extractions at Gentle Care Dentistry is under local anaesthetic. This is an injection into the gum to numb the area around the tooth, and make the procedure more comfortable for you.

Most patients will not have any complications, however there are a few possible complications that may occur:

• Pain may occur once the effect of the anaesthetic has worn off

• Severe bleeding

• Dry socket – for more information on dry socket please click here

• Infection in the gum or bone after the extraction

• Sinus problems as a result of an upper tooth root being close to the sinus.

• Injury to the nerve which may result in numbness, tingling and loss of feeling in the teeth, gums, cheeks, lips, chin and tongue. This effect will usually disappear after a few weeks, but may be permanent

• Damage to a nearby tooth or filling

• Thinning of the jaw bone