Tooth Extractions Specialist

Why would I need a tooth extraction?

Any tooth may become a candidate for extraction if it’s so decayed, inflamed, or infected that it can’t be saved by a filling or root canal therapy. A tooth that’s been badly damaged in a fall or some other kind of accident may also need to be removed.

In some cases, perfectly healthy teeth are extracted to clear the way for complete dentures; this usually only happens when a patient is already missing most of their teeth, however. 

Why are wisdom teeth extracted? 

Wisdom tooth removal is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of tooth extraction, as they’re frequently taken out. 

Although they can be just as useful as your other molars when they have enough room to erupt and they come in properly, wisdom teeth are prone to a variety of problems. Common reasons for wisdom tooth extraction include:

Impaction 

Impacted wisdom teeth, or those that remain beneath your gums, don’t have enough space to erupt. Although impacted wisdom teeth aren’t always problematic, they can become painfully inflamed. 

Partial eruption 

Partially erupted wisdom teeth create openings in your gum tissues that can trap food particles and bacteria, increasing your risk of infection. Teeth that can’t erupt completely can also be quite painful. 

Infection

Fully erupted wisdom teeth may become candidates for extraction if they’re severely infected. Abscessed and excessively decayed wisdom teeth are also commonly extracted.

When should wisdom teeth be removed?

Wisdom tooth extraction is usually recommended as soon as the teeth cause problems or pain of any kind. Dr. Malakuti may suggest earlier removal if a dental X-ray reveals that your wisdom teeth won’t have enough room to erupt.

Removing wisdom teeth during a child’s adolescent years can be a good way to avoid impaction or crowding problems, either of which can damage neighboring second molars. 

What happens during a tooth extraction?

At Caroline Malakuti, DDS, DMD, tooth extraction is usually an in-office procedure performed with a local anesthetic. Once the treatment area is comfortably numb, Dr. Malakuti makes a small incision in your gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. 

Next, she carefully removes any bone that blocks access to the root. If your tooth is easier to remove in pieces, she may divide it into sections. 

Once the tooth is out, Dr. Malakuti cleans the area, stitches your gum tissue closed, and places gauze over the site to stop any bleeding.

To learn more about tooth extractions, call Dr. Malakuti or book online today.