Tooth Extraction Richmond Hill

After all other options have been explored, TS Dental would recommend a tooth extraction only in the most extreme of cases where another method of saving the tooth is not available.

For example, if a tooth’s roots are damaged beyond repair, traditional restorative methods like root canal therapy would be impossible, necessitating the extraction of the traumatized tooth to maintain the overall health of the mouth.

For example, many dentists recommend the extraction of impacted wisdom teeth. While the teeth may not initially cause physical discomfort, the angle of impacted wisdom teeth can cause problems with adjacent teeth and can create inflammation and irritation as they continue to emerge. In severe but rare cases, wisdom teeth that are impacted can actually develop cysts that have the potential to weaken or damage the bone in the jaw; in these situations, tooth extraction will be necessary.

If you are experiencing extreme sensitivity or are suffering from advanced periodontal disease, you may be required to have a tooth extracted.  With a simple extraction, the dentist can safely remove the affected tooth without the need for major surgery.

Reasons for a tooth extraction

There are numerous situations in which a simple extraction can help alleviate pain or prepare you for another cosmetic or restorative procedure.  Some common reasons for extraction include:

• Advanced periodontal disease that has loosened the tooth roots
• Extra teeth or baby teeth that impede adult teeth
• Preparing a patient for orthodontic treatment
• Removing a fractured or malformed tooth
• Severe tooth decay which cannot be remedied with root canal therapy

How is a tooth extracted?

As a precaution, the dentist will first take X-rays of the tooth or teeth in question, to help plan the procedure.  After preparing a method of extraction, you will be given a local anesthetic that will prevent you from feeling pain during the procedure.  Next, the dentist will use a tool called an elevator to lift the tooth and loosen ligaments and gum tissue around the base of the tooth.  Finally, the dentist will use a pair of forceps, to gently rock the tooth back and forth until it breaks free of the ligaments holding it in the gum tissue.  Occasionally, a stubborn tooth will resist the dentist’s soft tug, refusing to come out.  In these and more complex cases, the tooth may need to be broken up into smaller pieces for removal.

Once removed, we will pack gauze into the socket and have you place pressure on the area by biting down.  If necessary, the dentist will place stitches to close the socket.

If you are sick the week prior to your scheduled extraction or on the day of, please contact our office, as alternative arrangements may need to be made.  Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.