Extractions

An extraction (also known as Exodontics or simply “Pulling a Tooth”) is the complete removal of an entire tooth from the jaw due to a number of reasons.

A dental extraction may be required due to:

• Severe Tooth Decay
• Damage from impact (eg. sports or accidents)
• An extremely loose tooth
• Tooth overcrowding in the jaw
• A tooth that can’t break through the gum
• Lingering baby teeth
• Impacted wisdom teeth

Before a tooth extraction, the dentist will take a look at your medical history to ensure that a dental extraction is the right choice for you. Be sure to mention if you have any allergies or are taking medications such as blood thinners. The dentist will generally take an X-ray of the affected tooth to plan the best way to remove it. The dentist may ask you to refrain from smoking for 24 hours before the extraction.

There are two types of dental extraction procedures:

• Simple Extraction: Simple tooth extractions are used when the tooth is exposed. The dentist will administer a local anesthetic and use a combination of an elevator and dental forceps to slowly and steadily rock the tooth bath and forth until able to remove the tooth.
• Surgical Extraction: If the tooth has not broken the gum line or is not fully exposed. These are less common than a simple extraction. The dentist will make an incision to access the tooth. A surgical tooth extraction will generally be performed under a general anesthetic.

During a dental extraction patients will feel light to moderate pressure, however, thanks to anaesthetic they should not feel any pain. Depending on the procedure, you will likely have soreness for a few days after.

Still nervous about getting tooth removed? We offer calming nitrous oxide sedation that will make sure you remain happy and comfortable during the procedure.