Tooth Extractions & Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Kerrville, TX

Why Would a Tooth Need to be Extracted?

There are many reasons why teeth may need to be extracted, but gum disease is actually one of the most common. Additionally, if tooth decay has damaged the root beyond repair, the tooth may not be able to survive in the mouth any longer. If you suffered an oral injury that significantly damaged or cracked the tooth, there may not be a restoration effective enough to restore it. Furthermore, teeth may be removed if they are trapped underneath gum tissue or causing overcrowding, which can make the bite misaligned.

The Tooth Extraction Process

Before your extraction surgery, our dental office will explain what to expect and help you plan for the appointment. You will want to dress comfortably in loose clothing and arrange for someone to be with you before and after your dental visit and provide transportation.

Extractions can be performed under local anesthesia. Dr. Butler can discuss what types of anesthesia and pain or anxiety-reducing medication are available and suitable for you. An extraction isn’t fun, but it doesn’t have to be painful, and after the procedure Dr. Butler will prescribe medication to minimize discomfort for the first few days after the surgery.

Dr. Butler will also discuss your options for restoration if the tooth being extracted is not a wisdom tooth. Losing a tooth in the middle of the arch can cause it to become unstable, and adjacent teeth can drift and also become loose. A bridge, dental implant, or other restorative dental solution can help prevent additional issues.

Wisdom Tooth Extractions

The third molars (the teeth that come in last and are in the very back of your mouth) are often complicated by lack of space in the mouth. They can rub against adjacent teeth, cause pain and damage, and become impacted.

Since these teeth are not needed for chewing and are at the ends of the supporting arches of teeth, they can be removed with no adverse effects.

Emergency Tooth Extractions

An emergency extraction is sometimes called for when a tooth has been damaged by trauma or has been neglected until it is infected, and the decay or damage is too extreme for the tooth to be saved. Dr. Butler will go over your options, including plans for a restoration to prevent additional tooth loss.