Tooth Extraction
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| • | Prior to Orthodontic Treatment: A common practice in pediatric dentistry involves removing one or multiple teeth as recommended by an orthodontist. This is often prior to braces being placed or other orthodontic treatment begins. The orthodontist may recommend this to create space or because the treatment plan called for it, for instance if it is an extra tooth. We may be asked to apply a spacer to hold the space following removal. |
| • | An extra tooth: Though it seems unusual, it is common for patients to grow extra teeth. Having two teeth try to move into the same position can be problematic to your child’s bite, one tooth often needs to be removed. |
| • | A damaged tooth: Teeth can be broken or severely damaged when engaging in sports, outdoor activities, or just from a fall or impact injury. Falls and injuries happen and teeth get broken. If the tooth is severely fractured, or broken below the gumline, we may recommend extraction. |
| • | A decayed tooth: Small amounts of decay can be removed and the tooth restored. At times, the decay can extend far enough that it is diseased beyond repair because there would be insufficient tooth structure remaining to rebuild with a dental crown. We may need to extract the tooth to improve the health of the mouth. |
| • | An impacted tooth: An impacted tooth is a tooth that is unable to fully extend and erupt from above the gumline. This is a common situation with the 3rd row of molars known as the wisdom teeth, but can occur with other teeth as well. The front eye teeth, sometimes referred to as cuspids or canine teeth, are also common targets for being impacted. Our first course of action will be an attempt to expose the tooth and help it erupt, but if the tooth is poorly positioned, this may not be an option and extraction is needed. |
