Alder Family Dental
Walla Walla, WA Dentist

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Tooth Extraction

Row of wooden tooth shapes, one of which is being pulled out of the row by dental pliers

We all want to maintain healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Unfortunately for most of us, this is easier said than done. Most Americans will have to undergo some type of restorative treatment during their lifetime. For some, this may include a tooth extraction. Tooth extraction is the removal of a problematic tooth from its socket in the bone. At Alder Family Dental, we may recommend a tooth extraction for several reasons. Do not worry though, we also offer restorations designed to replace missing teeth.

Why You May Need an Extraction

Tooth extraction is usually a last resort to improve your oral health and prevent the spread of disease.

Most extractions are the result of extensive damage caused by tooth decay or trauma. Other reasons include:

•	Extra Teeth. Sometimes extra teeth can block others from coming in or erupting in the proper position.
•	Baby Teeth. Sometimes baby teeth do not fall out in time to make space for the permanent ones.
•	Cancer Treatment. Certain cancer drugs and radiation treatments can cause teeth to become infected due to a weakened immune system.
•	Wisdom Teeth. Also known as third molars, these teeth do not erupt until we are in our late teens or early 20s. In many cases, there is simply not enough room in our jaws to accommodate these new teeth. This can lead to impacted teeth, problems with eruption, and pain, irritation, or swelling of the gum tissues.

Types of Extractions

There are two types of extractions: simple and surgical.

Most simple extractions will be performed by a general dentist. Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are above the gumline and can be gripped by a tool called an elevator.

A surgical extraction is used to remove a tooth that has yet to erupt or on that has broken off at the gumline. A surgical extraction is most common for the removal of wisdom teeth. During the procedure, we will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose and remove the tooth. In some cases, we may also need to remove some of the bone. Often, the tooth is broken into pieces to make the extraction easier.

After Your Extraction

After your extraction, we will give you a detailed set of post-operative instructions. Minor pain, discomfort, and swelling are common.

Once you have fully healed from your extraction, we can discuss possible replacements. It is important to replace a missing tooth as soon as possible. Otherwise, you may experience complications with your bite and jawbone. We typically recommend dental implants, because they are the next best thing to your natural teeth. Talk with our dentists to learn more about tooth replacement options.

Schedule a Consultation Appointment

If you are experiencing problems with your oral health, call (509)-525-9474, and schedule your consultation appointment today!

office@alderfamilydental.com

(509) 525-4723

342 Catherine Street
Walla Walla, WA 99362-3057

(509)-525-9474

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