In an ideal world, we would all keep all of our natural teeth for the duration of our lifetime. However, sometimes injuries, disease, genetics, and other issues can lead to the need for dental extractions to ensure the long-term health of your mouth. At Gentle Dental Care, patients in the Menomonie, Durand, Eau Claire, Baldwin, Colfax, and surrounding WI communities can rely on Dr. Emily Andre and Dr. Frankie Thatcher to be honest with them about their choices when it comes to their dental health. In some cases, tooth preservation is possible, whereas in others, an extraction is the best option.
Reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted
There are several reasons why a tooth may need to be removed.
- For many people, one of the leading causes for extractions is simply genetics and the way your mouth has developed, such as in the case of impacted wisdom teeth removal
- Or, you may have extra teeth, wisdom teeth that have erupted and are causing crowding issues, or a jaw that is too small for all of your teeth
- Untreated tooth decay and/or gum disease can also eventually necessitate tooth removal due to the extensive damage it causes to the tooth structure and supporting ligaments and bone
- Injuries can lead to cracks, breaks, or other injuries to a tooth that compromise its structure, leading to the need for an emergency tooth removal in some instances
Regardless of why you need a tooth removed, Dr. Andre and Dr. Thatcher will take all necessary measures to keep you comfortable and relaxed throughout the extraction process. With today’s modern dental technologies, we are able to use minimally invasive procedures in many cases and offer a wide variety of tooth replacement options to restore the function and appearance of your smile after extraction.
Bone grafting and other options to preserve a tooth
When your teeth have become loose due to the infiltration of gum disease or decay that has eaten away at the bone that keeps your firmly in place, a procedure called bone grafting may be possible to restore the lost bone structure and preserve your natural teeth. In addition, we offer effective gum disease therapies and beautiful, natural-looking restorations to help repair teeth damaged by decay or injuries so you can eat, smile, and speak with confidence.
To schedule your appointment at Gentle Dental Care, visit us online or call (715) 600-9004 today!
Frequently Asked Questions about Extractions & Preservation Services
Are there cases when a tooth extraction can be avoided?
In many cases, tooth extractions can be avoided with appropriate treatment. For example, if a tooth is severely decayed, a root canal and crown may restore its structure and functionality. If a tooth is loose due to bone loss, bone grafting can sometimes regenerate enough bone to stabilize it. We evaluate each case carefully to explore tooth-saving treatments before recommending extraction.
What are some signs that a tooth extraction might be necessary?
Tooth extractions may be necessary when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or infected beyond repair. Signs that you may need an extraction include extreme tooth pain, swelling around the tooth, difficulty chewing, or persistent infections. Extraction might also be the best option if a wisdom tooth is impacted or causing crowding. Your condition will be evaluated, and the most appropriate treatment options will be explained.
What techniques are used to make tooth extractions as comfortable as possible?
At Gentle Dental Care, we prioritize patient comfort. We use advanced techniques and offer sedation options to ensure extractions are as pain-free as possible. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area completely, and sedation can help reduce anxiety. Post-extraction care instructions are provided to promote a smooth recovery.
How can bone grafting save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction?
Bone grafting can save a tooth by regenerating lost bone around it. When bone loss occurs due to gum disease or trauma, the tooth can become unstable. Placing graft material around the affected tooth stimulates new bone growth, which helps to secure the tooth and restore its stability. This procedure can often prevent the need for extraction.
What types of bone grafting materials are used for tooth preservation?
There are several types of bone grafting materials, including:
- Autografts: Bone harvested from your own body, typically the jaw
- Allografts: Processed donor bone obtained from a tissue bank
- Xenografts: Bone from animal sources, typically bovine
- Synthetic materials: Lab-made materials that promote bone growth. The most suitable material will be selected based on your needs and oral health goals.
Is bone grafting for tooth preservation a painful procedure?
Bone grafting for tooth preservation is generally a comfortable procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring you don’t feel pain during the process. Mild soreness and swelling are normal afterward, but these symptoms typically subside within a few days. Pain management instructions will be provided to help you stay comfortable during recovery.
How does Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) benefit dental bone grafting procedures?
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is an advanced healing technique that enhances regeneration in dental bone grafting. It involves collecting a small sample of the patient’s blood, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and growth factors. This concentrated fibrin mixture is rich in healing properties and is applied to the graft site to promote faster healing and improved integration with the surrounding tissue. PRF can significantly enhance the success of bone graft procedures by accelerating recovery and improving outcomes, making it a valuable option for patients needing tooth preservation treatments.
How long does it take to see results from bone grafting for tooth preservation?
The healing process after bone grafting typically takes three to six months. During this time, the graft material integrates with your natural bone, creating a stable foundation around the tooth. We will monitor your progress and offer guidance to ensure the best possible outcome.
