If you are experiencing extreme sensitivity or are suffering from advanced periodontal disease, you may be required to have a tooth extracted.  With a simple extraction, the dentist can safely remove the affected tooth without the need for major surgery. Dr Fiat always tries to save a tooth but sometimes its not possible or the tooth may be a bad investment  as the expense to repair it and the possibility of still failing are to great to make saving the tooth worth while. Every patient is always given the options and is allowed to make an informed decision on what they would like to do.

Reasons for a tooth extraction

There are numerous situations in which a simple extraction can help alleviate pain or prepare you for another cosmetic or restorative procedure.  Some common reasons for extraction include:

• Advanced periodontal disease that has loosened the tooth roots
• Extra teeth or baby teeth that impede adult teeth
• Preparing a patient for orthodontic treatment
• Removing a fractured or malformed tooth
• Severe tooth decay which cannot be remedied with root canal therapy

How is a tooth extracted?

As a precaution, Dr Fiat will first take X-rays of the tooth or teeth in question, to help plan the procedure.  After preparing a method of extraction, you will be given a local anesthetic that will prevent you from feeling pain during the procedure.  Next, she will use a tool called an elevator to lift the tooth and loosen ligaments and gum tissue around the base of the tooth.  Finally, she will use a pair of forceps, to gently rock the tooth back and forth until it breaks free of the ligaments holding it in the gum tissue.  Occasionally, a stubborn tooth will resist her soft tug, refusing to come out.  In these and more complex cases, the tooth may need to be broken up into smaller pieces for removal. 

Once removed, we will pack gauze into the socket and have you place pressure on the area by biting down.  If necessary, the dentist will place stitches to close the socket.

If you are sick the week prior to your scheduled extraction or on the day of, please contact our office, as alternative arrangements may need to be made.  Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Any Questions please call Dr Fiat at our Danvers office  978-762-4455