Tooth Extraction

We believe that every tooth is precious and one of the main goals of modern dentistry will always be the prevention of tooth loss. All possible measures should be taken to preserve and maintain your teeth because the loss of a single tooth can have a major impact upon your dental health and appearance. However, it is still sometimes necessary to remove a tooth. Some of the reasons for doing so can be seen below:

	Severe Decay
	Advanced periodontal disease
	Infection or abscess
	Orthodontic correction
	Mal-positioned teeth
	Fractured teeth or roots
	Impacted teeth

Extracting teeth is made less difficult when the general principles of oral surgery are understood and practiced. If your dentist has recommended that a tooth be extracted, the following information will help you get through the first few days after your extraction. Should anything occur that seems out of the normal, do not hesitate to call your dentist.

Pain management must be addressed. Various pain management techniques must be used including:

	Medical management (pre-surgical and post-surgical medications), regional nerve blocks, and local nerve blocks.
	The top (coronal) 1/3 of the alveolar bone surrounding the tooth has 2/3rds of the holding power.
	Periodontal fibres are not designed to withstand slow, continuous torque.
	Multi-rooted teeth are transformed into single-rooted teeth.
	Gingival preservation is paramount.
	Complete extraction of root confirmed by radiograph.
	Closure of alveolus to maintain blood clot.

The techniques of extraction include surgical and non-surgical procedures. Following a close study of your radiographs your dentist will be in a position to advise you on which is the best procedure for you.