Removal or extraction of a tooth is recommended when it is no longer viable to save the tooth. This may be due to:
- too much damage from decay or trauma
- fractures or cracks
- recurring disease/infection
- severe periodontal disease (extensive bone loss)
In some cases, tooth removal may be recommended prior to other dental or medical treatment, such as:
- braces (Orthodontia)
- chemotherapy
- radiation therapy
- transplants
Proper local anesthesia is delivered to numb the area prior to tooth removal. Laughing gas (Nitrous Oxide) is offered to help reduce anxiety. Sometimes a tooth with difficult anatomy may need to be removed in pieces. If the tooth is still stuck, the gum and bone tissue may need to be cut to obtain adequate access to the tooth.
For most patients after removal of a tooth, we recommend Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and Acetaminophen (Extra Strength Tylenol) for pain management. We believe in being responsible health care providers. Strong pain medication such as Tylenol #3, Vicodin or Oxycodone may lead to dependence and abuse, and are only prescribed at the discretion of the dentist with reasonable justification.