Simple Tooth Extractions

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.


Back

Connect With Us

contact-img

Contact Us

We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.

Ready to come in for an appointment?
Contact us today!

Wallingford Station Family Dental
Drs. Howarth Sr., & Howarth Jr.
Creating Beautiful Smiles
Wallingford Dentist, Dr. Stephen Howarth is a dental professional dedicated to General, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry such as Dental Exams, Cleanings, X-rays, Fluoride, Dental Makeovers, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Crowns, & more. Please come and visit Wallingford, PA dentist Stephen Howarth, DDS.

The information and advice contained in or made available through the Wallingford Family Dental website is not intended to replace the services of a trained health professional or be a substitute for the advice of a dentist. Use of this website does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. The user should consult a dentist in all matters relating to his or her oral health and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or treatment. Wallingford Family dental makes no representations or warrantees with respect to any information provided within or through the website. We assume no responsibility for content contained in hyperlinks provided in this site. Wallingford Family dental will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages arising therefrom.