Tooth Extraction Procedure in McLean, VA

Dental extraction is the process of permanently removing a tooth from the socket of the jawbone.  Tooth extraction is performed for a variety of reasons and will take the form of either a simple or surgical tooth extraction.

Tooth Extraction:  Why it’s Necessary

One reason for dental extraction is a tooth that has become too damaged to repair.  This damage can occur as a result of advanced gum disease, tooth decay or traumatic injury such as a tooth fracture.  This tooth damage can also be caused by treatment for other illnesses.  Patients with cancer that receive radiation therapy or cancer fighting drugs often develop infections that weaken the teeth, making tooth extraction necessary.  When the tooth is so damaged that other treatment options are no longer possible, tooth extraction becomes a last resort.

Overcrowding is another reason a tooth must be extracted.  Many patients have too many teeth, which can be poorly placed, hindering proper development and alignment.  Overcrowding can be caused by baby teeth that don’t fall out, the arrival of wisdom teeth, or impacted teeth that fail to fully emerge through the gums.  Sometimes teeth twist or tilt during eruption causing an impacted tooth, which should be addressed to ensure proper oral health.

Dental extractions are often done to correct wisdom teeth, which are also known as third molars.  These teeth can be problematic and are widely known for the issues they cause.  Wisdom teeth are extracted for several reasons, but this usually due to complications caused by a lack of space.  Often times they fail to fully emerge, remaining impacted.  Even in cases where wisdom teeth are properly positioned, their placement in the rear of the mouth makes cleaning and good oral hygiene difficult.

Finally, in preparation for orthodontic treatment, tooth extraction may also be required.  When the patient has a crowded mouth and wishes to have their teeth aligned, tooth extraction can help.  In order for the orthodontist to properly align the patient’s teeth, room must be made so that repositioning is possible.

Simple Tooth Extraction

This type of tooth extraction is considered rather routine as a dental procedure.  The simple extraction can be performed by almost any general dentist.  It requires the tooth be visible in the mouth, and can be grasped easily by the dental forceps.  Usually this procedure only requires the patient be under a local anesthetic.

With flexible appointments and a convenient location, our professional and caring dental team is the right choice for your teeth extraction needs in Mclean, VA.  Call 703-356-7890 today for your next appointment!