Tooth Extraction London, Ontario
Let's Discuss the Tooth Extraction Process and How it Can Benefit You
Together, we can discuss the best course of treatment for you to improve your oral health. In some cases, this may include a tooth extraction.
What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that is performed to remove damaged, decayed, infected, or impacted teeth from the mouth. This procedure is typically performed when a tooth/teeth cannot be saved through other dental treatments such as fillings, crowns, or root canals or in order to prepare for orthodontic treatment. During the extraction process, we’ll create a small incision to loosen the tooth from its socket in the jawbone and then carefully remove it. You’ll receive a local anesthetic beforehand to alleviate pain and discomfort. After the tooth has been removed, you’ll be provided with aftercare instructions to promote proper healing and prevent any complications. While tooth extraction can sound daunting, it is a common and necessary procedure to alleviate pain, prevent infection, and maintain the overall health of the mouth.
What is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure to extract the third set of molars located at the back of the mouth – two at the top and two at the bottom. These teeth typically erupt between the ages of 17-25 and unfortunately for many patients, they can cause significant issues if not removed. Due to the limited space in the jaw, wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding or impaction issues, leading to pain, infection, and potential damage to adjacent teeth. The benefits of removing problematic wisdom teeth far outweigh the risks of leaving them in place.
Sometimes, a Tooth Extraction is the Best Option for Your Dental Health
From kids and teens to adults and seniors, safety and comfort are always our number one priority during a dental extraction process. We provide tooth extractions for various reasons, including:
Cracked or Chipped Tooth
If you've suffered trauma to your mouth and have a major cracked or chipped tooth, you may need a tooth extraction. This will relieve you of pain while also preventing any infection from spreading to surrounding teeth.
Severe Decay
A severely decayed tooth may not be able to be saved by a root canal. In this case, you'll need to have the tooth extracted in order to prevent infection from spreading and to achieve newfound strength with a tooth replacement.
Loose Teeth
Advanced gum disease can lead to receding gums and even tooth loss. It can also lead to jawbone loss. Treatment may require tooth extraction to prepare your mouth for gum disease therapy and tooth replacement options.
How We Perform Tooth Extractions in London, Ontario
Don’t let the words “extraction” or “surgery” intimidate you. During your consultation, our dental care team will ensure you’re educated and comfortable going forward. Rest assured knowing the extraction of teeth is necessary, especially when it comes to saving your oral health.
Examination and X-rays
A thorough examination and discussion with Dr. Spencer is necessary to determine the best course of action. X-rays will also need to be taken to determine where the underlying issues are such as infection, impacted wisdom teeth, bone loss, etc.
Local Anesthesia
Before treatment, a local anesthetic will be given at the extraction site to prevent discomfort and pain. If you have dental anxiety, dental sedation can also be provided to make you more comfortable while still being awake and able to answer questions.
Extraction
During the actual extraction, the dentist will use specialized tools to gently remove the tooth from its socket after making a small cut at the gum line. Afterwards, gauze will be applied and aftercare instructions will be provided as well as antibiotics or pain medications if required.
Aftercare Instructions
It's incredibly important to follow the dentist's aftercare instructions and to continue appropriate at-home dental hygiene for successful tooth extraction treatment. You should continue to apply pressure on the gauze and replace it when necessary, rest, avoid drinking from a straw, and rinse your mouth with warm water and salt.
Our Dental Centre Also Offers Sedation Dentistry
As mentioned above, our dental clinic in London, Ontario proudly offers sedation dentistry as a way to alleviate patients’ dental anxiety during procedures. Dentophobia is incredibly real and we completely understand. Before your procedure, we can discuss if Nitrous Oxide is for you. It’s an odourless and colourless gas, also referred to as laughing gas, that will make you feel giddy and relieved while still allowing you to be awake and answer our questions, or ask them! It will be administered through a mask and have an immediate effect. After your procedure, the mask will be removed and you’ll feel back to normal in no time.
Learn More About Tooth Extractions Today
Book an appointment today if you have been experiencing tooth pain or have suffered trauma to your mouth. Cracked or decayed teeth should be dealt with promptly. If you have a tooth extraction or wisdom teeth removal appointment booked already but have unanswered questions, contact us today and we’ll happily answer your questions and ease your worries. We’re here for you.