Routine Tooth Extraction

Extraction is recommended when a tooth becomes loose from gum disease, when teeth are crowded, when one tooth is preventing another from erupting, or when a tooth is so damaged or decayed that root canal therapy would be ineffective. Because missing teeth can cause health problems ranging from tooth shifting to difficulty chewing, restorative procedures are recommended following extraction. These may take the form of dental implants, bridges or dentures. The procedure itself may require removal of soft or hard tissue, depending on whether the tooth is fully erupted. A local anesthetic is usually all that is needed to eliminate discomfort, although sedation may be used for sensitive patients or children.

Contact us to learn more about Tooth Extraction.

Click for our dental animation »

Complicated Surgical Extraction, including Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt within the mouth. When they align properly, and gingival tissue is healthy, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. The extraction of wisdom teeth is necessary when they are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum, and even remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. These poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause many problems. When they are partially erupted, the opening around the tooth allows bacteria to grow and will eventually cause an infection. The result: swelling, stiffness, pain and infection. Local periodontal disease may affect the second molar tooth. The pressure from the erupting wisdom tooth may move other teeth and disrupt the orthodontic or natural alignment of teeth. The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom tooth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth. Removal of the offending impacted tooth or teeth usually resolves these problems. Early removal is recommended to avoid such future problems and to decrease the surgical risks involved with the procedure.

Contact us to learn more about Wisdom Tooth Extraction.

Click for our dental animation »

Biopsy of Oral Lesions

Oral surgery may be required to diagnose or treat injuries and diseases in the mouth. Biopsies can determine the presence of oral cancer or tumors, which may then be surgically removed (excised).

Contact us to learn more about Biopsy of Oral Lesions.