
Our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are times when removing a tooth is the best option for your oral health.
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth that cannot be restored or needs to be removed for another dental or orthodontic reason.
There are several situations in which tooth extraction may be recommended.
Patients often need to have their wisdom teeth pulled when they are causing problems or do not have enough room to develop properly.
A severe tooth infection or decay may require a tooth to be removed if the tooth cannot be successfully restored.
Sometimes a root canal may not be able to repair a tooth. In these cases, the tooth may need to be pulled.
Extra teeth can sometimes block or prevent other teeth from coming in properly or at all. Removing the obstructing tooth may help address the problem.
Advanced gum disease can reach a point where the tissues and bone can no longer adequately support a tooth.
Prosthetics are artificial teeth and devices that may sometimes require teeth to be pulled to allow for proper fit and placement.
Full dentures may require teeth to be pulled to accommodate the dentures.
In some situations, tooth extraction may be necessary as part of orthodontic treatment.
The first step is taking X-rays to help us view the root of the tooth and surrounding bone. This allows us to carefully plan the tooth extraction. Next, an anesthetic is used to numb your mouth and help ensure there is no pain or discomfort during the extraction process.
The tooth is then gently removed while taking the utmost care to keep the surrounding bone undamaged. Finally, Dr. Greene or Dr. Ratcliff may place a few stitches to help the area close properly and support the healing process.
Dr. Kelsey Greene and Dr. Stephen Ratcliff do all they can to preserve your natural teeth, but sometimes a tooth extraction is unavoidable. If you have been told you need a tooth removed or are experiencing a dental problem that may require an extraction, contact our Arlington office to learn more about your options.
Whether you have a question, appointment request, or need to schedule a follow up call us at
(817) 274-7875
or send us a message to get started. We're ready to help!