Tooth Extraction

Tooth extractions occur for many reasons. Whether it is wisdom teeth causing crowding or a tooth that is damaged and beyond repair, our team at Stanley Street Dental will ensure minimal discomfort to you throughout the procedure.

Before removing any teeth, x rays are required to assess any underlying damage. Once the dentist has recommended an extraction, anaesthetics are used to numb to mouth before removing the tooth. Stitches are then inserted to aid in the healing process.

Why do teeth need to be extracted?

Permanent adult teeth are designed to last for a full lifetime, but they do occasionally need to be removed for the betterment of the patient. These reasons behind a tooth removal can include:

Damage – If the tooth is badly damaged or decayed, it may be beyond repair and in need of an extraction. It could then be replaced with a denture if needed.

Crowded mouth – Dentists sometimes have to extract teeth to make room in the mouth. For example, if an orthodontist plans to align a person’s teeth using braces or Invisalign, they may need to make room for the treatment. Sometimes, treatment is simply not possible if the existing teeth are too big for the person’s mouth.

Infection – If the decay within a tooth has spread into the centre of said tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are located, then it can lead to infection. Root canal therapy is often enough to correct this, but if it cannot be cured with a RCT or antibiotics, tooth extraction can be used as a last resort to prevent the infection from spreading.

Risk of infection – Sometimes, even the risk of infection is enough to have a tooth removed. If you are receiving chemotherapy or having an organ transplant and your immune system is weakened, even the potential for a tooth infection is enough of a reason to extract.

What to expect from a tooth extraction?

Your dentist will first give you an injection of a local anaesthetic to ensure that you cannot feel the pain of the tooth being extracted. This will numb the area around the tooth. General anaesthetic is also used in some cases, putting you to sleep for the entire operation.

If you have any concerns about your teeth, book in for an appointment and let our friendly team look after you.