Tooth Extraction

It may be determined that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.

To avoid these complications, in most cases, Dr. Burns will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.

The Tooth Extraction Process

At the time of extraction, Dr. Burns will numb the area surrounding your tooth, jaw bone and gums with a local anesthetic. You may also opt for nitrous oxide or IV anesthesia for the procedure.

During the extraction process, you may feel pressure, but no pain, as the local anesthetic has numbed the nerves in the area, stopping the transference of pain. Dr. Burns and our Surgical Care Team will do everything possible to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

If you opt for IV anesthesia on the day of your procedure, we ask that a parent or responsible adult accompany you to the office and plan to stay with you the rest of the day. The time needed for your procedure will vary, depending on the number of teeth to be removed and their condition. Recent advances in medicine and technology allow patients to undergo tooth removal in a manner which promotes rapid healing and minimal post-operative discomfort. State-of-the-art sterilization and infection control techniques are used at all times.

Sectioning a Tooth

Some teeth require “sectioning”. This is a very common procedure, done when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. Dr. Burns simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time.

After Tooth Extraction

For details on home care after tooth extraction, see the page “After Extractions” under “Home Instructions”.