Extractions
 Your teeth are the strongest substance in your body. While they are strong, however, they can still be damaged. Minor damage that only affects the enamel of your teeth may not cause any oral health issues, but more significant damage can. When teeth are damaged, treatment is needed right away. Because your teeth have so many critical responsibilities, saving them is a top priority. If the damage is too severe, though, saving them may not be possible. In fact, trying to save them could be harmful to your oral, and overall, health. If your teeth are significantly damaged, Oregon Periodontics, P.C. can perform an extraction.
Effects of Damaged Teeth
Tooth damage and decay need to be treated right away. Without treatment, your teeth are at risk for further harm. Cracks can worsen. Decay can turn into cavities, that only continue to grow in size. The integrity of your teeth is compromised. Damage and decay can extend into the inner layers of your teeth, leaving a direct path for bacteria to get inside. If bacteria get into your teeth, it can lead to an infection that can cause severe pain. When a tooth is infected, bacteria can enter the bloodstream, which can then lead to significant health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
How Do I Know If I Need an Extraction?
When your teeth are damaged, we first perform a thorough oral examination. We look at the affected teeth, assessing the extent of the damage, and also look over your gums for signs of an infection. X-rays are also a part of your exam, enabling us to see any damage or signs of infections below the gumline. With your exam, we can determine if the tooth can be saved with a crown or if you need an extraction. Common reasons you may need a tooth extraction include:
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Cracks that extend below the gumline.
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Cracks that are only below the gums.
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A split tooth.
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A tooth that is shattered.
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Significant tooth decay.
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Overcrowding. This is often done to prepare for orthodontic treatment.
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Impacted teeth. |
Tooth Extractions
There are two ways in which teeth can be extracted, simple extractions and surgical extractions. Simple extractions are done under a local anesthetic and are fairly straightforward. The tooth is gripped and gently but firmly moved back and forth to widen the periodontal ligament. Once the tooth is loose, it is lifted free from the socket. Surgical extractions, on the other hand, are used in more complex situations, such as impacted teeth or teeth that are shattered. These extractions are performed under local anesthetic and can also be performed with sedation as well.
The process begins with small incisions in your gums, exposing the roots of the teeth as well as the surrounding bone. We then work to remove the tooth. This may involve removing a small amount of bone that is blocking the tooth or sectioning the tooth and removing it in pieces. Once the tooth is removed, the socket is cleaned, and the gums are sutured closed. When your teeth cannot be saved after tooth damage, the best course of action is to extract them and then replace them. Call Oregon Periodontics, P.C. today at (503) 575-7750 for more information. |
