Posted

When you’re told that a tooth needs to be extracted, the prospect might not seem like a pleasant one. Yet in some cases, it’s the best option for restoring a smile, and if extraction is already necessary, then hesitation might make matters worse. Because teeth don’t grow back, however, your dentist will ensure that tooth extraction is indeed the best option, and you should, too, by asking a few questions about the procedure.

Is it really necessary?

Tooth extraction is typically a last resort measure. For instance, if an impacted wisdom tooth threatens your smile, then there is really no option for fixing it, and extraction is the only way to save the rest of your teeth. If a tooth is severely damaged, or if its root has been damaged, then restoration might not be possible, either. However, teeth are highly-resilient, and the right dental restoration may be able to save the tooth, in which case it should not be extracted.

Will the extraction be simple or complicated?

A simple tooth extraction is when your dentist can simply (but carefully) grasp the tooth with a special tool, loosen it, and then gently remove the tooth from its socket. By contrast, complicated or surgical extraction is performed by exposing the tooth from underneath the jawbone and periodontal tissues to extract it safely, without damaging nearby tissues and bone structure. Impacted wisdom teeth and broken teeth roots often require surgical tooth extraction, though your exact procedure will depend on your specific needs and circumstances.

Should I replace the tooth?

With the exception of wisdom teeth, most teeth will need to be replaced after they’ve been extracted. The loss of a tooth can cause other teeth to shift out of alignment and sustain more pressure than normal, leaving them more susceptible to damage and tooth decay. Before performing your tooth extraction, your dentist will discuss your options for replacing the tooth after it’s been removed.

Riverside Dental Group and Dental Associate Offices Serves a Community Near You!

Our dentists look forward to caring for you and every member of your family with a comprehensive selection of services. We will maintain and improve your oral health with a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, restorative, implant, and emergency dentistry techniques. We also specialize in endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, and orthodontics, serving patients from Riverside, Temecula, Moreno Valley, Corona, and all surrounding California communities. To schedule an appointment, contact one of the following locations nearest to you:

Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.

Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800

Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest in Riverside, CA at (951) 776-9001.

Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.

Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.

Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.