Extractions & Wisdom Teeth
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is when a tooth is removed from its socket in the bone in your mouth. While it is always preferable to save a tooth, our dentists in Edmonton perform extractions when a less invasive option would be ineffective, or if leaving the tooth would compromise your health.
Often, teeth need to be removed due to excessive damage or decay. Teeth can also be pulled in preparation for other dental procedures, such as dentures or implants.
Our dentists at Westmount Dental Centre can also remove wisdom teeth if they are causing problems for your oral health or are causing you pain.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to erupt in the back corners of a normal adult mouth. They usually come through in young adults between the ages of 17 and 25 years old.
This third set of teeth is not always functional, and can cause damage to other teeth as they develop. They can also create problems with your oral hygiene, and cause you pain. In these cases, your dentist may recommend removing them.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
Whatever the reason for your missing tooth, it's important to replace it to maintain your oral health. Missing teeth can cause the teeth to shift around the gap, creating issues with misalignment. Missing teeth can also lead to your jawbone deteriorating, as it won't get the stimulation it needs in the empty space.
If you are getting a tooth pulled, your dentist will explain which tooth replacement option best suits your needs. Common examples include dental crowns, dentures or dental implants.