Dental extractions are a common periodontal procedure that involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Extractions may be necessary for a variety of reasons, including decay, infection, trauma, or the presence of an impacted tooth. At Gainesville Periodontics, we have helped hundreds of North Georgia residents in Gainesville and surrounding areas finally find relief from tooth pain with tooth extractions.

Why Are Dental Extractions Necessary?

There are several reasons why a dental extraction may be necessary, including:
Decay or Damage: Teeth that are severely decayed or damaged may require extraction to prevent further damage or infection.
Infection: Teeth that are infected may need to be extracted to prevent the spread of infection to other teeth or the surrounding tissues.
Impacted Teeth: Impacted teeth occur when a tooth is unable to emerge from the gum line and becomes trapped beneath the gum tissue. Impacted teeth may cause pain, swelling, and infection and may need to be extracted to prevent further complications.
Overcrowding: Dental extractions may be necessary to create space in the mouth for orthodontic treatment or to prevent overcrowding.

What Are Impacted Teeth?

An impacted tooth is a tooth that is trapped below the gumline, usually by the presence of a neighboring tooth, and cannot erupt into the mouth. Impacted teeth can cause a variety of problems, including pain, swelling, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. Commonly impacted teeth include wisdom teeth, which are the last set of molars to emerge in the back of the mouth. Wisdom teeth may become impacted because there is not enough room in the mouth for them to emerge properly.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Before the extraction, the periodontist will numb the area around the tooth with local anesthesia. If the extraction is more complex, the patient may be given sedation or general anesthesia to help them relax during the extraction. Once the area is numb, the dentist will use specialized instruments to loosen the tooth from the socket and carefully remove it from the mouth.
After the extraction, patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs. Patients should avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, and strenuous activity for a few days after having a tooth extraction. Patients should also follow the periodontist’s instructions for post-operative care, including proper oral hygiene and follow-up appointments.

Looking for tooth extraction in Gainesville, Ga?

Gainesville Periodontics can help. We’ve helped hundreds of Gainesville residents achieve the pain-free, beautiful smiles they’ve always wanted. Schedule your first appointment today.