Extractions

Most people assume their teeth will last a lifetime, but that’s not always the case. At Frontier Family Dental in Graham, Washington, Seung Jae (David) Joung, DMD, performs simple and surgical extractions for teeth that require removal. Whether you have deep decay, a severe tooth injury, or a widespread infection, Dr. Juong can perform an extraction to preserve your oral health. Call the dental practice today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What are extractions?

An extraction is a procedure that removes a tooth from its socket, the hole in the gum tissue and bone that once housed your tooth. Extractions remove the entire tooth from its crown through its root. While your dentist always strives to preserve your natural teeth, they may recommend an extraction if one of your teeth poses a risk to your oral health.

Are there different types of extractions?

There are two types of extractions that the dentists at Frontier Family Dental perform:

Simple

A simple extraction involves removing a tooth that is visible through the gum line. The procedure is fairly straightforward. Your dentist uses a dental elevator to loosen the tooth before pulling it out. Simple extraction rarely requires sutures, and the recovery time is usually quick.

Surgical

Surgical extractions are necessary when the affected tooth is partially or fully trapped beneath the gum line. Your dentist must make incisions in your gums to locate and extract the tooth. This procedure is more complex than a simple extraction and always requires sutures.

Why might I need extractions?

Your dentist may perform a tooth extraction if you have:

• Deep decay
• A tooth infection
• Advanced gum disease
• Overcrowding
• Orthodontic problems
• Injury
• A deeply fractured tooth
• Impacted wisdom teeth

Your dentist at Frontier Family Dentist always chooses extraction as a last resort. If you have already tried less invasive treatments, or your tooth threatens your surrounding tooth health, they may recommend extraction.

What happens during extractions?

While a simple extraction takes only a few minutes, surgical removal requires more preparation. Your dentist may administer sedation dentistry before the procedure to keep you comfortable. Frontier Family Dental offers nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedation for patients anxious about undergoing dental procedures.

Next, your dentist administers a local anesthetic to numb your teeth and gums. They make a small incision in your gums to locate the tooth. If the tooth has fractured beneath the gum line, your dentist may remove it in pieces. 

Finally, they disinfect the socket and suture your incision. Your dentist packs your mouth with gauze and provides thorough aftercare instructions to support healing and prevent infection.

Call Frontier Family Dental today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about extractions.