There are many reasons why a tooth may need to be removed for the sake of a patient’s oral health. Trauma or injury to the tooth may be so severe that repairs are not possible, or a serious cavity may make extraction the best option. Typically, in cases where the tooth is damaged in some way, there are a variety of methods including fillings and bonding that can remedy the problem. In the case of gum disease like periodontitis, however, more and more of the teeth can become exposed, resulting in some cases in loose teeth or even the exposure of the root. If you’re experiencing issues with otherwise healthy but crowded teeth, sometimes extractions are necessary for proper spacing or in preparation for further orthodontic treatment.

Ultimately, reasons for tooth extraction are wide-ranging, and our practice understands that each patient has a unique case. We prioritize prevention and maintenance, and preserving as many of your natural teeth as possible; however, in some cases removal is needed to prevent issues from occurring to surrounding healthy teeth, or to make way for a high-quality restoration process like dental implant placement. We’ll work closely with you and your oral health and aesthetic goals to create an ideal treatment plan.

Following a tooth extraction, you may want to have a method of tooth replacement. For aesthetic concerns, options like bridges and partial dentures can be a more affordable option; however, dental implants are significantly more durable and long-lasting, and anchor directly into the jawbone like natural teeth. This anchoring means that the bone receives the necessary stimulation provided by actions like chewing and biting, which prevents jawbone loss and potential changes to the face’s shape. Jawbone degradation is a risk after a tooth has been removed, and though bridges and partials provide the appearance of a tooth, they cannot provide the functionality of implants. Dental implants act just as your natural teeth do, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods with ease and comfort.

If you are missing one or more teeth, or wondering what the best course of action is for tooth replacement following an upcoming procedure, don’t hesitate to give our office a call. Our experienced oral surgeons in Lexington and London, KY will help you restore the smile of your dreams.

Learn more about our high-quality dental implants here. 

Tooth extraction is an extremely simple procedure in most cases. Typically, it can be done easily in a matter of minutes. There are more complex cases where impacted or otherwise difficult to extract teeth may need to be removed, which can necessitate a surgical procedure that takes longer to complete.

After your extraction is complete, it’s important that you have adequate time to rest and recover. Typically, you can return to your normal activities after a few days, but it’s important to avoid excessive physical activity in the immediate aftermath of a tooth extraction. If you are receiving multiple extractions, this can make both the procedure and recovery process a longer one, which is why teeth are generally removed only as a last resort.

Most tooth extractions can be performed comfortably with local anesthetic, which allows you to remain awake during your procedure while numbing the treatment area. For patients who are experiencing anxiety towards an extraction procedure, we also offer sedation to help you feel more calm and at ease. Local anesthetic will result in feeling some amount of pressure as the process is underway, but mitigates pain. Following an extraction, you can use OTC pain medication to manage discomfort, or you may be prescribed a specific medication for use afterwards.

If you are sedated, it’s important to have someone to remain at the office during the procedure and provide transportation. In some cases, particularly in the case of impacted teeth and surgical extractions, you may be placed under general anesthesia. This will allow you to remain unconscious during the procedure, but the effects typically take the longest to wear off. Our London and Lexington oral surgeons will help you to understand each part of your treatment plan, including the steps involved in procedures like tooth extraction– and will work with you to select the best sedation option for your case.