Extractions

If efforts to save a tooth have been unsuccessful due to periodontal (gum) disease, cavities, or fracture then the tooth can be removed during nonsurgical or surgical treatment.

Extractions may be simple with very careful elevation of the root of the tooth and ultimate removal of the tooth out of its’ socket. Every effort is made to preserve the bone during the extraction to prevent defects in the jaw bone from occurring. Preservation of the bone and soft tissue allows the regular dentist to provide beautiful restorations to enhance your smile. Minor Alveoloplasty (re-contouring of the bone) may be required to allow for better healing of the extraction site(s) and to improve the comfort and fit of dentures. The extraction sites are carefully cleaned, irrigated, and sutured to promote the healing and health of bone and gum tissues. Dr. Brown also prefers to perform additional scaling and root planing on the surfaces of the adjacent teeth after extractions to confirm that all calculus (tarter) has been removed and the roots are smooth for healthy reattachment of the gum tissue to the teeth.

A surgical extraction may be needed to gain access to severely decayed and/or fractured teeth. Small incisions are made around the tooth and the tissue is laid back. The tooth may be sectioned into two or three sections which minimizes trauma to the bone. The sections of the tooth are carefully removed and the area is closed as described above.