Tooth Extractions in Penrith
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. It is performed for a wide variety of reasons, including:
- Tooth Decay: If the decay is severely advanced and the nerves and blood vessels in the tooth have been infected, making root canal treatment unsuitable.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Sometimes our mouths are simply not big enough to accommodate these teeth. The wisdom teeth become impacted (stuck), which can cause infection and pain.
- Orthodontics (Braces): Teeth can erupt in many different positions. If this happens, tooth extraction may be necessary to align your other teeth properly.
- Periodontal Disease: Bacterial infection under the gum damages the tissue connecting the tooth to the gum. As the disease progresses, the bone anchoring the tooth to the jaw dissolves, resulting in a loose tooth.
- Trauma: Teeth that have been damaged by trauma may require extraction.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions may require tooth extraction.
The Extraction Process
Your dentist will examine your tooth and explain why extraction is necessary. An X-ray will be taken to plan the best way to remove the tooth and check for an abscess. If an abscess is present, your dentist will prescribe antibiotics before the extraction.
Your dentist will ask about your medical history and any medications you’re taking, as some medications can complicate an extraction. If you’re anxious about the procedure, let your dentist know, as sedation is available. If your dentist does not provide sedation, they will refer you to a practice that does.
Types of Tooth Extractions
- Simple Extraction: Performed when the tooth is visible in the mouth. The dentist will administer a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Once the anaesthetic takes effect, the dentist will grasp the tooth with forceps and apply pressure to loosen and extract the tooth.
- Surgical Extraction: Carried out for teeth that cannot be seen in the mouth, are partially exposed, or are broken off at the gum line. After administering a local anaesthetic and making a small incision in the gum, the dentist will expose the tooth or root and use the same procedure as a simple extraction to remove it. In some cases, the tooth or root may need to be sectioned for removal.
Post-Extraction Care
Get in Touch
If you require a tooth extraction, schedule a consultation with our experienced dental team at Smith Street Dental in Penrith. We’ll evaluate your situation and guide you through the process.
