Dental Extraction

Sometimes a tooth can be saved… and sometimes it can’t.

Sometimes your Dulles dentist will recommend extraction. Sometimes this will be the result of a baby tooth that developed incorrectly, or of a baby tooth with long roots that have prevented it from falling out. Or sometimes, it’s because a tooth is so badly decayed that it presents a risk to the surrounding teeth and jaw. Infection, abscess, orthodontic correction, or problems with a wisdom tooth can also ultimately require extraction.

When your Loudoun Dental Associates dentist determines that the best course of action is extraction, he may remove the tooth that day, or he may request that you schedule an appointment specifically for this procedure.

How does a dental extraction work?

The root of each tooth is encased within your jawbone in a “tooth socket,” and your tooth is held in that socket by a ligament. In order to extract a tooth, your dentist must expand the socket and separate the tooth from the ligament holding it in place. While this procedure is typically very quick, share with your dentist your concerns and ask about options for sedation.

Once a tooth has been removed, neighboring teeth may shift causing problems with chewing or with your jaw joint function, and so moving forward your Loudoun County dentist may recommend that you replace the extracted tooth with a bridge or even partial dentures.

Call Loudoun Dental Associates today to discuss your options, at (703) 542-7600.