Tooth Extraction in Lexington, SC
An extraction is the complete removal of a tooth. Extractions are sometimes necessary if the tooth has suffered extensive tooth decay or trauma that cannot be repaired, if the patient has gum disease, if the tooth is impacted (usually the wisdom teeth), or if a primary tooth is preventing the normal eruption of a permanent tooth. Depending on the complexity of the case, an extraction can be performed either surgically (cutting the tooth or surrounding bone) or non-surgically.
Dr. Rodgers has performed many surgical and non-surgical extractions at our Lexington, SC office. For a variety of reasons, the tooth may present as unusually complex, in which case they may refer the patient to an oral surgeon for specialized care.
During the tooth extraction process, the tooth and surrounding gum will be made completely numb and comfortable with local anesthetic, although you will still feel pressure. Nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) and oral conscious sedation are available options for those patients who would like something more than local anesthetic to help them relax.
Once a tooth is removed, there are several options to replace the tooth:
- Fixed bridge: a three unit prosthesis anchored and cemented to the two adjacent teeth
- Removable partial denture: made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal with denture teeth on it; comes in and out of the mouth
- Implant: a permanent tooth replacement consisting of a titanium “root” and a metal and porcelain tooth crown
- Complete denture: a removable acrylic prosthesis indicated when a patient has no remaining natural teeth; complete dentures can also be retained or entirely supported by implants to help hold them in place
Dr. Rodgers will be happy to discuss the above options with you and help you choose the best option for you and your dental needs.
