Tooth Extractions
Clackamas, OR
Your teeth are incredibly strong, and they can stand up to a significant amount of daily use. Even though your teeth are the strongest substance in your body, however, the teeth can still be faced with physical damage and decay that can compromise their integrity and the health of your mouth. While it is often possible to save damaged teeth, sometimes the damage is too severe. If you have suffered significant tooth damage and the affected teeth cannot be saved, Sunnyside Dentistry can perform a tooth extraction.
Effects of Damaged TeethTooth damage can cause serious complications. Cracks, chips, and decay can compromise the structural integrity of the affected teeth, leaving them susceptible to further harm. Damage can also expose the inner layers of your teeth, providing direct access for bacteria to get inside. Once in the teeth, bacteria can lead to a painful infection. As bacteria multiply, they can begin to spill out through the root of the tooth and into the jawbone, leading to the formation of a dental abscess. If the abscess ruptures, bacteria can enter into the bloodstream, enabling them to travel throughout the body.
Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?In most cases, damaged teeth can be restored. Depending upon the nature of the damage, fillings or crowns can be used to protect the tooth and restore its strength. However, there are some situations in which the damage is too severe to save the tooth. Attempting to save a severely damaged tooth can compromise your oral health further. In cases like these, the best solution is to extract the damaged tooth and provide you with a replacement. Reasons for tooth extractions include:| • |
Cracks below the gumline. This includes cracks that start in the crown and travel below the gumline as well as those that are entirely below the gumline. Cracks below the gumline cannot be protected with a dental crown.
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Teeth split in half.
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Teeth that have been shattered. These teeth are too weak to support a dental crown.
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Excessive tooth decay. Fillings are typically used to treat cavities. When cavities are too large, fillings can compromise the integrity of your teeth. At the same time, the teeth may be too weak to support crowns.
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Teeth may also need to be extracted to correct overcrowding with orthodontics or to treat impacted wisdom teeth. |
How are Teeth Extracted?There are two ways in which teeth can be extracted. Simple tooth extractions are a straightforward procedure that is done under a local anesthetic. First, we use a special tool called an elevator to separate the gums and periodontal ligament from the tooth. Next, forceps are used to move the tooth back and forth to widen the ligament and loosen the tooth. Finally, with the ligament wide enough, the tooth is lifted free.
Surgical tooth extraction is a more involved process. It is also done under a local anesthetic, though sedation can be used as well. First, small incisions are made in the gums to expose the root of the tooth and surrounding bone. Next, the tooth is removed. This may involve removing small amounts of bone or cutting the tooth and removing it into sections. Finally, after the tooth has been removed, the socket is cleaned, and the gums are sutured closed.
When faced with tooth damage, dental care is needed right away. If the damaged teeth cannot be saved, extractions and replacements are often the best way to restore the health of your mouth. For more information and to schedule your consultation, call Sunnyside Dentistry at (503) 451-5104 today. |
