A tooth extraction is a procedure to remove a tooth, either manually or surgically, and can be a necessary step in your dental treatment for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common reasons for teeth extractions include:
Wisdom Teeth Removal
As shown in the image to the right, if your wisdom teeth come in at an angle, they may disrupt the alignment of your teeth. This is especially problematic after orthodontic treatment. In many patients, the wisdom teeth tend to erupt during or after orthodontic treatment, so it is important to have them removed before any damage can be done that would require prolonged or additional orthodontic care. Even if your wisdom teeth don’t come in at an angle, a majority of patient’s jaws are too small to accommodate these extra teeth, and they can still crowd the teeth around them, which would also disrupt the alignment.
Severe Tooth Decay or Infection
Tooth decay and infection can happen for many different reasons such as improper or infrequent brushing and flossing. These conditions may make it impossible or too costly to repair a tooth. Keeping up with your twice yearly dental cleanings and taking proper care of your teeth in between these cleanings can go a long way in preventing decay or infection that may lead to teeth extractions.
Advanced Gum Disease
Similar to tooth decay or infection, gum disease can be caused my improper dental care so it’s important to see your dentist regularly and always floss daily and brush your teeth between meals. If you don’t, you may require a tooth extraction so it doesn’t affect the supporting tissues around adjacent teeth.
Stubborn Baby Teeth
Sometimes a baby tooth may be extracted if it’s physically preventing the permanent tooth from coming in. Keeping up with your family dentistry appointments helps your dentist see the gradual growth of your child’s baby and adult teeth, so we can determine if there are any issues that need to be taken care of before they become major orthodontic problems.
Orthodontic Work
Before or during your orthodontic treatment, some teeth may require extraction to create room for teeth that are being moved into place. This is especially true for patients with smaller than average mouths or jaws. This can be completed by your family dentist, or at the orthodontist’s office.
Depending on your situation, our doctors will discuss the best options for you with regards to your tooth extraction and overall dental treatment plan. With the exception of wisdom teeth, prior to the tooth extraction we review treatment options with you for the replacement of the missing teeth. These options include complete or partial dentures, bridgework, or dental implants. All of these services are performed at Grady Dental Care by our caring and qualified doctors. Please call us today at 678-957-0770 or contact us online to schedule your appointment. Regardless of your dental care needs, we are happy to help residents of Johns Creek, Cumming, and the surrounding areas achieve the perfect, beautiful smiles they dream of!