A dental extraction is a procedure to remove a tooth from your mouth. An extraction is most commonly required when one of your teeth is damaged or decayed beyond any practical restoration.
A highly damaged tooth can adversely affect the healthy teeth surrounding it by presenting an entry point for infection. Extractions may be necessary if a tooth is blocking other teeth from coming in (often seen in children) and creating ‘crowding’. Wisdom teeth are often candidates for extraction for this reason, and particularly so for teenagers as their bodies rapidly develop. Advanced gum disease may also require a tooth to be extracted so that it doesn’t affect the supporting tissues and bone structures of your mouth.
Should an extraction be needed, Dr. Gordon will thoroughly review your medical and dental history and take the appropriate x-rays. He will then administer anesthetic to reduce your discomfort and remove the damaged tooth. An extraction can typically be accomplished within a matter of minutes; you may feel pressure as the tooth is removed but should not feel any pain. It is critical to keep the area of the extracted tooth clean to prevent infection following its removal. Some pain and swelling following an extraction is normal and you may be given painkillers to help in the healing process.
Have an emergency?
Emergency dental care is available through Keystone Dental
Should you have an emergency situation, immediately call our office at (250) 614-4444. We can treat all different kinds of dental emergencies, from toothaches to loose, fractured, or knocked-out teeth.
After-hours Emergencies
Dr. Gordon is a participant in the Prince George Dental Emergency Group. Dental emergency protocols are followed and the after-hours number to call is (250) 563-2470.