What is a Dental Extraction (Tooth Removal)?

extractionA Dental Extraction is simply a fancy medical way of saying the removal of a tooth. Teeth are removed due to decay that has gone too far, or some trauma to the tooth. There are other times when we may recomend a tooth be removed due to your teeth being too close together and to prevent a condition known as tooth crowding. The removal of a tooth in a “crowded” area allows the healthy growth of new teeth.

How do I know if I need an extraction?

We would love for you to come in and have an exam to determine if your tooth needs to be removed.

There can be orthodontic reasons that a tooth needs to be removed. Prior to braces, it is not uncommon for teens to have teeth too close together, requiring an extraction to ensure a straight, beautiful smile.

Many of us have had our wisdom teeth removed in our younger years or are looking to do so soon. Why is this? An overwhelming amount of data shows that wisdom teeth tend to cause issues later in life and are much more difficult to remove once they are fully in place.  Many general dentists actually do not like removing wisdom teeth because it can be a difficult procedure and an uncomfortable one for the patient.

Many of the patients we see have not been tot he dentists in many years. If you are one of these people do not fear, we do not judge. Regular checkups can catch problems before they worsen and also provide you with many more options for treatment vs if you wait until you are in unbearable pain. For many people who wait until it is too late, an extraction of the problem tooth/teeth is our only solution.

Please call Dr. Sabbahi or Dr. Makani to discuss your treatment options and get more detailed information about extractions. Remember to come in to our office for regular checkups to prevent needed the emergency extraction.