There are a number of reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted. Most often tooth removal is necessary because of breakage or severe tooth decay, but other reasons include:
- having extra teeth that are blocking the emergence of additional teeth;
- having teeth which are in the way of dental surgery or prevent effective alignment; or
- having severe gum infection which is affecting the integrity of underlying supportive bone structures.
If for these or any other reasons you need to have a tooth or multiple teeth carefully and skilfully removed, Dr. Kevin Clark and his associates can work with you to achieve that end.
There are two types of tooth extractions, generally referred to as "simple" and "surgical" removals.
Simple Extractions
Simple extractions are, as the name suggests, generally not very complicated when performed by an experienced professional. They are carried out on teeth that are visible, meaning they have broken free of the gum. In general, simple extractions involve the use of a local anaesthetic, and when it is properly placed the procedure is pain free. After Dr. Clark has "froze" the area that is being worked on, he gently elevates the tooth to be removed using an elevator and then proceeds to carefully apply a measured degree of force with dental forceps. When enough pressure has been applied to disconnect the periodontal ligament (a group of connective tissues holding the tooth in place) from the tooth, and the socket in the alveolar bone (the bone which houses the teeth) is sufficiently widened to allow for the tooth to be easily extracted, Dr. Clark slides the tooth free. A cotton swab is then set in place to promote clotting and the procedure is complete.
Surgical extractions
This is necessary when the tooth that must be removed is still below the gum line, has not emerged from the bone, or is otherwise difficult to access. Wisdom teeth often require surgical extraction because there is not enough room for them to emerge from the bone and/or gums. Such extractions require an incision and the use of a general anaesthetic. Dr. Clark will carefully remove the soft tissue covering the tooth and, when necessary, the tissue covering the bone as well. In some cases it may also be necessary to remove parts of the bone which are preventing the tooth from being pulled. Often the tooth is fractured so that it may be removed in pieces. Once the tooth has been removed the incision is closed and quickly begins to heal - healing takes place faster in the mouth. Swelling may occur, and it may be necessary to take pain medication following the procedure.
Whether the extraction required is simple or surgical, an experienced dental professional can make sure the procedure is as quick and painless as possible.