There are several reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted. The most common among these are:
- Decay or damage that’s too severe to be repaired with a filling or other restoration
- Overcrowding, which occurs when there’s not enough space in the jawbone to accommodate all teeth and can damage tooth alignment
- Impacted wisdom teeth that don’t fully emerge from the gums and can cause infection and damage to surrounding teeth
- Gum (periodontal) disease that’s progressed to the point where a tooth cannot be saved
- To make room for dentures or bridges
- Breakage resulting from trauma or impact
It’s important to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon to determine whether extraction is appropriate for you.
How Does Dental Extraction Work?
Extractions are usually performed in-office by a dental surgeon. First, a local anesthetic is applied to the area surrounding the tooth to be extracted, after which the dentist gently manipulates the tooth until it is released. The dentist will then clean out the area and provide aftercare instructions.
Tooth Extractions in Santa Monica, CA
If you’re in the Santa Monica area and think you may require a tooth extraction, contact the team at Vision Dental Montana to schedule a consultation.