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Extractions / Wisdom Tooth Removal

A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth, a safe and routine procedure that is no cause for worry. If extraction is recommended for a wisdom tooth or any other tooth, your North Valdosta Dental Care dentists will explain why this is the best course of action for the health of your mouth.

Young man smiling happy walking at the city.
Young man smiling happy walking at the city.

A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth, a safe and routine procedure that is no cause for worry. If extraction is recommended for a wisdom tooth or any other tooth, your North Valdosta Dental Care dentists will explain why this is the best course of action for the health of your mouth.

What is tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth, a safe and routine procedure that is no cause for worry. Sometimes it is referred to as “pulling teeth.” Your North Valdosta Dental Care dentists may perform the procedure right in their office or, under certain circumstances, refer you to an oral surgeon.

Why would I need an extraction?

Your dentists may recommend extraction for a number of reasons, including:

    • The tooth is so badly decayed that it cannot be saved, and the mouth would be healthier without it
    • The tooth has been broken in a way that cannot be repaired
    • A tooth is impacted, which means it has not properly emerged through the gums. This often happens with wisdom teeth.
    • A tooth is positioned in a way that it could crowd or damage other teeth
    • Removal in preparation for braces or orthodontic treatment
    • A very serious gum disease called periodontitis
What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are your third set of molars, the chewing teeth towards the back of your mouth. They typically emerge or erupt in one’s late teen or early twenties. If there is room in the jaw to accommodate them, and they emerge fully and straight without crowding other teeth, then there is no need to remove them.

Why would wisdom teeth need to be extracted?

Though there is nothing inherently wrong with wisdom teeth, they are often removed so that they don’t cause problems for your other teeth and the rest of your mouth. Wisdom teeth often get impacted, which means they did not fully or properly emerge through the gums. Partially emerged teeth can be difficult to clean, which leads to plaque accumulation and tooth decay. Teeth that are not positioned straight can cause comfort issues and crowd existing teeth. Ask your dentist to show you your wisdom teeth on the x-ray and explain how their positioning affects your mouth.

What can I expect from an extraction?

While it may sound like a scary procedure, modern dentistry has made the procedure routine, with minimal discomfort. Make sure to share any concerns you have with your North Valdosta Dental Care team. Extractions are performed with local anesthesia, which numbs the area of the mouth around the tooth to be extracted, so while you will feel some pressure from the procedure, there should be minimal discomfort. If you have trouble getting numb or have dental fears that make you uncomfortable with dentistry, discuss this with your dentist. It may be possible to use sedation dentistry to keep you relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. Once you are comfortable, the procedure is usually relatively quick. Afterward, your dentist will give you instructions on keeping the removal area clean and helping the area properly heal. It is important to carefully follow these instructions to prevent infection or other complications. Your dentist may also discuss the benefits and options for tooth replacement, including partial dentures, bridges, and dental implants.

What alternatives do I have to extraction?

This depends on your circumstances, so it is best to ask your North Valdosta Dental Care dentists whether there are any alternatives. Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to repair a damaged tooth with a crown and/or a root canal instead of extracting it. While extraction may seem initially like the least expensive option, your dentist will probably recommend replacing the extracted tooth. An extracted tooth that is not replaced can leave a gap that causes problems for the surrounding teeth and potentially affects your bite. If it is an option, repairing and saving the tooth may end up being less expensive than extracting and replacing that same tooth with partial dentures, bridges, or dental implants. Ask your dentist to explain all the options and why extraction is or is not recommended.

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229.469.9789

Make an Appointment for Your Smile!

229.469.9789

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      Monday:

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      Contact Us

        Hours

        Monday:

        8 am – 5 pm

        Tuesday:

        8 am – 5 pm

        Wednesday:

        8 am – 5 pm

        Thursday:

        8 am – 5 pm

        Friday:

        8 am – 5 pm

        Saturday:

        8 am – 4 pm

        Sunday:

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