Extractions

tooth extractionsNo one wants to lose a tooth. At Steve A. Sato, DDS, our goal is to keep our patients’ teeth healthy for life. We always do everything we can to preserve a patient’s natural teeth. If a tooth is infected or injured, we strive to save it.

In some circumstances, however, saving a natural tooth is not always possible. In these cases, tooth extraction might be the only treatment option available.

Why Does My Tooth Need to Be Removed?

As stated above, sometimes a natural tooth simply cannot be saved. In these cases, extraction is the only alternative treatment. Reasons why a tooth might need to be extracted include:

  • Excessive tooth decay
  • Irreparable damage
  • Infection inside the tooth or gums
  • Overcrowding

Just because you’ve been injured or have an infection does not mean that your tooth needs to be extracted. Every patient and each situation is different, and Dr. Sato evaluates each patient’s teeth individually and thoroughly to determine the safest and most effective course of treatment available. Tooth extraction is always treated as a last resort in patient care.

What To Expect During a Tooth Extraction

There are two types of tooth extraction procedures: simple extractions and surgical extractions. The procedure varies depending on the type of extraction you need.

Simple Extractions

Simple extractions are relatively straightforward and are performed on teeth that are visible above the gum line. Simple extractions can be completed using only a local anesthetic to ensure you experience no pain during the procedure.

Once the mouth is numb, Dr. Sato begins gently loosening the tooth, moving it back and forth with forceps. Once loose enough, it can be extracted.

Surgical Extractions

Surgical extractions are performed when tooth removal is complicated by teeth that are broken or lodged below the gum line. Since a surgical extraction is a more complex procedure, it is usually performed with the patient completely sedated with general anesthesia. The specifics of the surgical process vary based on each patient’s individual situation.

Surgical Tooth Extractions Performed at Our Dayton Dental Clinic

Our dental practice is fully equipped to perform a variety of tooth extraction procedures including single teeth, multiple teeth, and wisdom teeth (third molars) extractions.

With the help of our visiting prosthodontist patients experience no pain and reduced stress during surgical tooth extractions with general anesthesia administered via IV.

Restore Your Smile With Tooth Replacement Options After Extraction

If a tooth extraction is your only treatment option, that does not mean you have to live with an incomplete smile for the rest of your life. Thankfully, there are plenty of tooth replacement options available right here in our dental clinic including dental implants, bridges, and more.

If you are considering having a missing tooth replaced, we welcome you to schedule a smile restoration consultation with our dentist. After talking with you about your options, Dr. Sato can help you determine the tooth replacement option that will best help you achieve your smile goals.

Call our Dayton office today for an appointment. Dr. Sato and our team will design a specific treatment plan for any extractions needed, as well as replacement options.