Extractions Specialist

What are extractions?

A tooth extraction is a process of safely and carefully removing a tooth from its socket. At Southern Smiles Lawrenceville, we remove both the crown of the tooth in question (the part you can see) and the root from below the gumline. 

You can get one of two extraction types

Simple extractions

Simple extractions remove teeth without incisions. During your simple extraction, we grip and lift the tooth with special tools. 

Surgical extractions

Surgical extractions are reserved for impacted teeth, fractured teeth, and any others that are harder to access. We make an incision in the soft tissue supporting the tooth for better access to the tooth. She might need to break it into pieces and remove them one by one before stitching the incision closed. 

When do I need an extraction?

You might need an extraction because a tooth has excessive decay and is no longer treatable with other methods like fillings. Another common reason for extractions is to alleviate tooth crowding and make more room for orthodontic treatments like braces. Additionally, you can get tooth extractions to prepare for dentures or dental implants. 

Some of the most commonly extracted teeth are the wisdom teeth, which are the four molars in the back of your mouth. These molars emerge later than your other teeth and often cause problems. Sometimes, they crowd the other teeth. In other cases, they have no room to come in and remain below the gumline.

Many people choose to remove their wisdom teeth before they cause issues. You should talk with us about wisdom teeth extractions to find out if they can benefit you or your children. 

Do extractions hurt?

Tooth extractions are not painful due to modern options for anesthesia available today. Local anesthesia is usually the best choice for a simple extraction, which numbs a small region surrounding the tooth. The numbing effect wears off later that same day, and we  can tell you how to manage any lingering discomfort. 

Surgical extractions might require more than local anesthesia. Intravenous anesthesia in addition to local anesthesia keeps you calm and relaxed throughout the procedure without feeling any pain. The recovery process might involve some discomfort, but we can teach you the best ways to manage it.

For more information on tooth extractions and when they’re beneficial, call Southern Smiles Lawrenceville or book an appointment online today.