Smile-Maintaining Dentistry

Tooth Extractions

You and Dr. Finney may determine that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease (gum disease) or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in your mouth, or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

Because removing a single tooth often leads to problems with chewing, your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, tooth removal can have a major impact on your dental health. To avoid these complications,  Dr. Finney will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacing  the extracted tooth.

The Extraction Process

At the time of extraction Dr. Finney will use a special gel to numb the area around your tooth and gums before giving you a local anesthetic in a very comfortable way.  Many of our patients have said that this process is quite painless. 

During the extraction process you will feel pressure. Please note that you will feel the pressure without pain because  the anesthetic numbs the nerves that tell you there is pain, but  the nerves that tell you there is pressure are not affected.
 
We use bone socket filling material as a scaffold for new bone to grow within the extraction site.  This is extremely effective in holding the height and width of the socket, allowing for placement of a future implant or other restoration. 

After Extraction Home Care

Please see the information on Tooth Extraction under Home Instructions.