
Extractions are perhaps the most feared procedure in dentistry and also the most common. With modern methods and anesthesia, there’s nothing to fear! At Dentistry of the Carolinas, we offer oral conscious sedation, as well as a gentle chairside manner to help alleviate any apprehension you may have.
Why would I need a tooth extracted?
Reasons for tooth extraction may include orthodontics, denture preparation, impaired or nonfunctional teeth, and impacted wisdom teeth. The dentist may also recommend tooth extraction for damaged or decayed teeth, as well as teeth associated with advanced gum disease. If left in the mouth, decayed or damaged teeth can cause acute pain and contribute to gum and bone loss. Your dentist will discuss all of the options with you prior to treatment and thoroughly explain what you can expect during and after the treatment.
What are wisdom teeth, and why should they be removed?
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. Because the modern jaw shape often will not accommodate wisdom teeth, they can cause problems for many people. In some cases, the wisdom teeth erupt sideways, irritating the oral tissues and creating an atmosphere susceptible to decay. They can also partially erupt or crowd existing teeth. Wisdom teeth that fail to erupt are referred to as impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can crowd or damage neighboring teeth, and in some cases, lead to cyst or tumor formation.