Tooth extractions are procedures that remove the teeth, usually because they have become severely damaged or decayed. At Wesley Yemoto DDS, when a tooth is extracted, it’s typically done so that the surrounding teeth and tissues aren’t harmed or threatened. If the tooth has a visible infection near the root of the tooth, this can lead to a painful abscess. In these cases, an extraction is necessary to relieve the pain and prevent the spread of the infection. Once a tooth is removed, it is essential to replace the missing tooth to avoid shifting other teeth or causing other oral health complications.
When Are Extractions Needed?
If a tooth is significantly damaged, infected, or causing pain, the tooth can’t function normally and needs to be removed. This can be caused by various issues, including decay, injury, and infection. In some cases, wisdom teeth that haven’t erupted properly may also need to be extracted. In these cases, patients should visit their dentist regularly to avoid missing the problem altogether.
Proper dental hygiene is a must for keeping teeth healthy and strong. While regular visits to the dentist are essential, so is practicing good oral hygiene at home to ensure teeth are free from plaque and harmful bacteria. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes, flossing daily, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, and seeing the dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning. People should also avoid smoking, chewing tobacco, and using their teeth to open packages or bottles.
What Should I Expect During Extractions?
We will administer local anesthesia during a simple tooth extraction to prevent pain in the treatment area. Then we will gently rock the tooth back and forth until it becomes loose enough to remove. Sometimes, we use an elevator tool to loosen the tooth before removing it. Once removed, we may need to place sutures to ensure the site heals properly.
For more complex cases, we will likely need oral surgery to remove the tooth. We will numb the treatment area, then remove bone and other tissue with a drill or laser. We then follow the same process as a simple tooth extraction for removing the damaged tooth and placing sutures.
While extraction may seem scary for patients, it is often the best option to prevent the spread of infection and discomfort. Get in touch with Wesley Yemoto DDS, at 4860 Cherry Ave # F, San Jose, CA 95118, or call (408) 266-9957 to learn more about the benefits of extractions.