Extractions
Tooth Extractions in Metuchen, NJ
An extraction is a routine dental care procedure that can treat various conditions, such as infection or impacted wisdom teeth. At Metuchen Dental Group, our team is experienced in performing tooth extractions and will work to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
If you need an extraction, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a consultation. We will be more than happy to answer any questions and help you decide if this treatment is best for you.
When is a tooth extraction necessary?
Dental extractions are performed for various reasons to protect your oral health. These are some of the most common reasons a patient may have their tooth removed.
- Wisdom Teeth: Most patients need to have their wisdom teeth extracted at some point. If you don’t have your wisdom teeth removed, they can often cause pain, swelling, and damage to adjacent teeth.
- Gum Disease: Also known as periodontal disease, it is an infection of the gums that can damage the supporting bone and eventually lead to tooth loss. In some cases, an extraction may be the only way to treat periodontitis.
- Trauma or Injury: When a tooth is fractured, dislodged, or otherwise damaged, it can be very difficult to repair. In some cases, the only way to ensure that the tooth will not cause further problems is to remove it entirely. Similarly, extractions may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading if a tooth is badly infected.
- Tooth Crowding: Overcrowded teeth can often lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum recession. They can impact your bite and make it difficult to eat or speak properly. Extraction is typically done preceding orthodontic treatment to treat your misaligned smile.
The Extraction Process
The dental extraction process is relatively straightforward and can be performed by our dentist or oral surgeon. To begin, we will numb the area around the tooth. This can be done with local anesthesia, which numbs the tooth and the surrounding gums. Once the surrounding area is numb, our dentist will use a tool to loosen the tooth and remove it. In some cases, your tooth may need to be cut the tooth structure into pieces before it can be removed.
Once the tooth has been removed, the surrounding area will be cleaned, and a gauze pad will be placed over the socket to help stop any bleeding and prevent a dry socket from forming. The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour, and most patients report feeling little to no pain during or after the procedure. Most pain can be managed with prescription pain medication or over-the-counter pain medication.
Treatment Options for Lost Teeth
Once your tooth has been removed, you will need to replace it to maintain the function and aesthetics of your smile. Several options are available to replace missing teeth, including dental implants, bridges, and dentures.
Implants are the best option to replace a missing tooth because they look and feel just like your natural teeth. They are also the only option that helps preserve the bone in your jaw. Bridges and dentures are also good options, but they do not provide the same level of function or stability as a dental implant.
Contact us!
Our friendly staff and doctors are ready to answer any questions about extraction. In addition, our skilled dentists give personalized attention to each patient to ease their nerves during their visit. Call 732-321-1151 to schedule an appointment with our office in Metuchen, NJ.