07/19/2016
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. If a tooth has been broken or damaged by decay, we will try to fix it with a filling, crown or other treatment. Sometimes, though, there's too much damage for the tooth to be repaired. This is the most common reason for extracting a tooth. Other reasons for extractions may include: extra teeth that blocking other teeth from coming in, creating room for tooth movement during orthodontic procedures and people receiving radiation, cancer drugs or an organ transplant since these procedures can weaken or lead to infected teeth.
We will ask about your medical and dental histories and take an X-ray of the area to help plan the best way to remove the tooth. If you are having all of your wisdom teeth removed, you may have a panoramic X-ray. This X-ray takes a picture of all of your teeth at once. It can show several things that help to guide an extraction:
The relationship of your wisdom teeth to your other teeth
The upper teeth's relationship to your sinuses
The lower teeth's relationship to a nerve in the jawbone that gives feeling to your lower jaw, lower teeth, lower lip and chin. This nerve is called the inferior alveolar nerve.
Any infections, tumors or bone disease that may be present
Antibiotics may need to be taken before and after surgery. Antibiotics are more likely to be given if you have infection, a weakened immune system, a long surgery is planned or if you have specific medical condition(s). You will be told not to eat or drink anything for six or eight hours before the procedure. You also should make sure you have someone available to drive you home after the surgery.
North Shore Smiles
1 Post Office Square, Lynnfield MA 01940
Call us now at (781) 592-9779
www.NorthShoreSmiles.com
