Tooth Extraction

What Are Tooth Extraction Procedures (TPEs)

A tooth extraction is a dental procedure where a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. While oral surgeons often perform this, general dentists and gum specialists can do it, too. Teeth may need pulling for various reasons, including severe decay, infection, or overcrowding.

Regardless of the cause, the main aims are to relieve pain and improve oral health. If you’re unsure whether you need a tooth extracted, it’s best to consult your dentist. They can provide personalized advice based on your situation and help you determine the most appropriate next steps.

When Should You Get a Tooth Pulled?

Dentists may suggest removing a tooth for several reasons:

• 1. Severe Decay That Can't Be Fixed
   If a cavity goes deep into the tooth’s center, it can cause an infection. While a root canal can often help, in bad cases, the tooth may need to come out to stop germs from spreading.

• 2. Gum Disease Damage
  Gum disease hurts the gums, tooth-supporting fibers, and jawbone. In later stages, it can cause teeth to become loose. Pulling the tooth might be best to keep your mouth healthy.

• 3. Dealing with a Stuck Tooth
  A stuck tooth can’t come in right, often happening with wisdom teeth. Your dentist might suggest removing it to protect other teeth and avoid infection or crowding.

• 4. Fixing Crowded Teeth
  Sometimes, there’s not enough room for all your teeth. Your dentist might recommend pulling a tooth to make space and improve dental health.

• 5. After an Accident
  If you’re in an accident, like a car crash, and a tooth gets badly hurt and can’t be saved, it might need to come out to keep your mouth healthy.

Talk to your dentist if you’re worried about your teeth or think you might need a tooth pulled. They can check your mouth and give you the right advice.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom tooth extractions in Havelock, Ontario

Wisdom teeth typically emerge last, usually between ages 17-25. When they grow in properly, healthy wisdom teeth aid in chewing. Mild discomfort during their appearance is normal, but severe pain warrants immediate dental attention. These final four molars can be beneficial when they develop correctly. However, if you experience significant discomfort, you must consult your dentist immediately.

Wisdom Teeth Issues

Why is wisdom teeth removal necessary?

Most people lack adequate space in their mouths for wisdom teeth, often leading to their extraction. The space shortage can cause pain, infection, and impaction. Dr. Grover at Horizon Family Dental uses dental X-rays to assess current or potential harm to nearby teeth and oral structures, helping understand your risk level.

Following your check-up, Dr. Grover will discuss with you whether and when your wisdom teeth should be removed. It’s usually recommended that they be extracted before problems occur.

Wisdom Teeth Complications

Could your tooth discomfort be wisdom teeth-related? When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room or emerge incorrectly, they can cause various issues:

• Impaction
• Infection
• Sinus discomfort
• Tooth decay
• Damage to adjacent teeth
• Overcrowding
• Cyst formation
• Pain

If you’re experiencing any pain, contact Horizon Family Dental in Havelock, Ontario, promptly to arrange an oral examination.