Has your dentist’s office in Marietta, GA suggested tooth extraction? Tooth extraction involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone and is recommended for many reasons. For example, wisdom teeth removal is necessary when these back molars do not properly erupt or come in sideways. Tooth extraction is also required in cases of severe decay. Keep reading for answers to commonly asked questions about tooth extraction.

When Does a Tooth Need to Be Extracted?
Wisdom teeth removal is necessary for impacted wisdom teeth. The teeth are impacted when they do not come in vertically or when there is insufficient room in a patient’s mouth for the back molars. A dentist also recommends a single tooth extraction when the baby teeth do not fall out to make room for permanent teeth. Tooth extraction at a dentist’s office is necessary when a tooth becomes so decayed that it cannot be fixed with a filling or dental crown. Finally, one or more teeth may need to be removed before braces can be placed in cases of overcrowding.

What Happens Before a Tooth Extraction?
Before your tooth extraction, an oral surgeon will first take an X-ray to determine the best method for tooth extraction. Your oral surgeon will then numb the affected area or administer anesthesia. You may need to take antibiotics before tooth extraction if you have an infection. If you require anesthesia, you will need to follow specific instructions and cannot eat or drink anything for six to eight hours before the procedure.

How Does the Tooth Extraction Procedure Work?
If your tooth can be seen, your dentist will perform a simple extraction. With this kind of tooth extraction, your dentist will first loosen the tooth using a dental instrument called an elevator. Your dentist will then remove the tooth from its socket using forceps. If you require a surgical extraction because the tooth has not yet erupted or has broken off, your oral surgeon will make an incision into your gum before removing the tooth.