An extraction is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. A dentist or oral surgeon performs the procedure, which can be done for several reasons. Sometimes, teeth need to be removed due to decay or damage that is too severe to be repaired with fillings or other restorative procedures. Other times, teeth are extracted in preparation for orthodontic treatment. Wisdom teeth are also commonly extracted because they often cause crowding in the mouth. Visit Inverness Smiles: John Aiken, DMD, for more information.

Reasons for a Tooth Extraction

Infection

An infection in the tooth can spread to other areas of the mouth and even into the bloodstream if left untreated. Removing the tooth can prevent the infection from spreading and causing further problems.

Crowding

If you have too many teeth in your mouth, overcrowding can occur. This can make your teeth crooked or cause other teeth to shift out of place. In some cases, removing one or more teeth can help correct this problem.

Impacted Teeth

Teeth can be impacted for a variety of reasons. Wisdom teeth are a common example. They may not erupt properly due to overcrowding in the mouth. In some cases, they may become impacted because there is not enough room to grow.

Gum Disease

Gum disease can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. If you have gum disease, seeking treatment as soon as possible is essential to prevent further damage.

Orthodontic Treatment

Some patients may need to remove one or more teeth to make room for orthodontic treatment. This may be necessary if you have overcrowded teeth or a misaligned bite.

Dental Trauma

If you experience a traumatic injury, such as a broken jaw, you may need one or more teeth removed. Our dentist in Birmingham, AL, will determine which teeth need to be removed based on the extent of your injury and overall oral health.

The Procedure for Tooth Extractions

Before removing a tooth, our dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic. If the tooth is visible above the gumline, the dentist will use an elevator to loosen it and remove it with forceps. If the tooth is not visible, the dentist will make a small incision in the gums to access the tooth before pulling it out. After the tooth is removed in Birmingham, AL, the dentist may stitch the wound closed. Sometimes, the dentist will place gauze over the area to help stop the bleeding.

After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some discomfort in the area of the extraction. However, this should only last a few days and can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications. Avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, and eating hard foods until the wound has healed.

If you are considering getting a tooth extracted, contact Inverness Smiles: John Aiken, DMD, at 5291 Valleydale Rd Suite 129, Birmingham, AL 35242, or call (205) 995-3989. Early diagnosis and treatment can help save your tooth and prevent further complications.