Our expert dentists use modern technology and techniques for safe, painless tooth extractions.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
When your dentist removes a tooth from its socket, it’s called a tooth extraction. At The Oaks Dental Group, we make every effort to help you keep your natural teeth. However, sometimes, due to severe damage, decay, infection or crowding, a tooth extraction is necessary. When that’s the case, our Greenville dentists use advanced technology and techniques to ensure the procedure is quick, effective and comfortable. We also offer a range of tooth replacement options to help you restore your smile.
Why Does a Tooth Need to be Extracted?
A tooth extraction could be needed due to:
Severe Decay or Damage
If a tooth is damaged because of an accident or injury and the damage is too extensive for the tooth to be saved, an extraction could be necessary. In other instances, a tooth has to be removed because of severe decay or infection that can’t be repaired.
Crowding
Some patients have teeth extracted before starting orthodontic treatment, such as getting braces. Usually tooth extractions are recommended in cases of excessive crowding.
Eruption Difficulties
Occasionally, a tooth isn’t able to erupt and gets trapped under the gum tissue or bone, known as impaction, which can lead to pain and swelling. Or, teeth may come in at the wrong angles. The teeth that most commonly have problems erupting are the wisdom teeth. Your Greenville dentist may recommend having the teeth extracted to prevent infection and damage to the surrounding teeth.
What Your Dentist Needs to Know Before a Tooth Extraction
Though having a tooth removed is a safe procedure, it’s still important to take precautions to prevent complications like infection. This is why you will need to let our Greenville dental office know about your medical history, as well any medications or supplements you’re taking before your tooth extraction.
Also be sure to inform your dentist if you have:
- A compromised immune system
- A congenital heart defect
- Liver disease
- Any artificial joints, such as a hip replacement
- A replacement heart valve
- A history of bacterial endocarditis
