Oral Surgery
Tooth Extractions
Procedure Description
Untreated decay can lead to an infection within the tooth, which may cause an abscess or bone loss. When infection occurs, a tooth extraction may be required to maintain overall oral health and prevent the infection from spreading. Teeth also need extractions when they aren't salvageable from trauma or other injuries. The procedure can be easy and done at a general dentist, or in complicated cases a specialist surgeon may be needed. Typically, a bone graft is needed after extraction to preserve the health of the bone underneath.
Extraction of bad teeth
Indications
Tooth extraction may be recommended in the following circumstances:
When to Consider Tooth Extractions
Severe Tooth Decay
Advanced cavities that have damaged too much of the tooth to be restored with fillings or crowns.
Advanced Gum Disease
Severe periodontitis that has caused significant bone loss, resulting in loose teeth that cannot be saved.
Dental Infection or Abscess
Infections that cannot be treated with root canal therapy or when endodontic treatment is not a viable option.
Crowding or Orthodontics
Strategic tooth removal to provide adequate space for proper alignment during orthodontic treatment.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Third molars that are unable to erupt normally and may be causing discomfort, infection, or harm to neighboring teeth.
Fractured Teeth
Teeth with fractures below the gum line or root damage that cannot be successfully repaired.
Note: Our first priority is preserving your natural teeth whenever feasible. Extraction is only recommended when alternative treatments are not effective or would have a poor long-term outcome.
Benefits
Why Choose Tooth Extractions?
Eliminates Pain and Infection
Addresses the underlying cause of dental discomfort, swelling, and infection that medications alone cannot fully treat.
Prevents Spread of Infection
Stops bacterial infection from spreading to surrounding teeth, the jawbone, or other areas of the body.
Protects Adjacent Teeth
Removes compromised teeth before they cause damage or complications to neighboring healthy teeth.
Alternatives
Root Canal Treatment
Can save infected teeth if enough structure remains and prognosis is good
Dental Crowns
May restore broken teeth if fracture doesn't extend below the gumline
Periodontal Treatment
Can save teeth with moderate gum disease if bone support is adequate
Monitoring
Watchful waiting for asymptomatic wisdom teeth that aren't causing problems
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Services
Locations Offering Tooth Extractions
Available at all Philadelphia Dental locations throughout Philadelphia
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