Tooth Extraction

Extraction Procedure

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Dental extractions are a common dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth from the mouth. There are a variety of reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted, including extensive decay or damage, periodontal disease, crowding of teeth, or trauma.

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The process of dental extraction typically involves several steps. First, we will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. This will help ensure that you do not feel any pain during the procedure. In some cases, sedation may also be used to help you relax during the procedure.

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Once the area is numb, we will use specialized tools to gently loosen the tooth from the surrounding tissues and bone. Depending on the size and shape of the tooth, it may need to be divided into smaller pieces to make removal easier. Once the tooth has been removed, your we may place stitches to help the area heal properly.

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After a dental extraction, it is important to follow your post operative instructions for care to ensure proper healing. This may include avoiding certain foods or activities for a period of time, taking pain medication as prescribed, and keeping the extraction site clean and free of infection.

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Socket Preservation Bone Graft

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Socket preservation is a dental procedure that is performed following a tooth extraction. It is designed to help preserve the bone in the socket where the tooth once was, which can prevent future dental problems and improve the appearance of the surrounding teeth.

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When a tooth is extracted, the bone that surrounds the tooth's roots can begin to deteriorate over time. You may lose up to 50 - 75% of the original bone volume during the months following tooth removal.  This can cause problems for neighboring teeth, as well as make it more difficult to place a dental implant in the future. Socket preservation helps to prevent this bone loss by filling the socket with a specialized bone graft material.

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The socket preservation procedure typically involves several steps. First, the area around the extraction site is numbed with a local anesthetic. Then, we will carefully remove any remaining tooth fragments and clean the socket thoroughly.

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Once the socket has been cleaned, the dentist will place the bone graft material into the socket. This material can come from a variety of sources, such as human donor bone or synthetic materials. The graft material is then covered with a protective membrane or tissue and secured in place with stitches.

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Socket preservation can help to maintain the structure and integrity of the jawbone following a tooth extraction, which can improve the long-term health and appearance of the surrounding teeth. If you are planning to have a tooth extraction, ask us about the benefits of socket preservation and whether it is a good option for you.

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