Teeth naturally grow through the gums at specific stages in early childhood, usually between six months and two years. This process, called “eruption,” brings baby teeth into the mouth. Now that you know what an erupted tooth is, you might wonder, “What is an erupted tooth extraction?” Let’s discuss the details.
Understanding Erupted Tooth Extraction
An erupted tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth that has fully emerged through the gums. They are completely opposite to impacted teeth, which are still partially or fully stuck in the jawbone or gum tissue.
Types of Erupted Tooth Extractions
Erupted tooth extractions can be classified differently, such as the type of tooth or how the extraction is done. The following are the main types:
- Simple Extraction
This procedure is used for teeth that have fully erupted and are easy to access. The dentist numbs the area with local anesthesia and then uses dental forceps to grasp and remove the tooth. However, they do it after loosening it with an elevator instrument. - Surgical Extraction
This type of extraction is needed when the tooth is hard to reach, or if it has complications like curved roots or is covered by a lot of bone. It may involve making an incision in the gum to get to the tooth, especially if it is severely decayed or damaged.
Common Reasons for Erupted Tooth Extractions
Erupted tooth extractions are done for various reasons, mainly related to dental health. Following are the main reasons a dentist might recommend removing a tooth:
- Severe Tooth Decay: If a tooth is badly decayed and can’t be fixed with fillings or crowns, it may need removal.
- Periodontal Disease: Advanced gum disease can damage the bone and tissue supporting a tooth, making removal the best option to prevent further issues.
- Crowding: In orthodontics, teeth may be removed to create space for better alignment, especially when teeth are crowded.
- Trauma or Fracture: Teeth that are broken or damaged from injury may need extraction if they can’t be fixed.
- Infection or Abscess: If an infected tooth or one with an abscess cannot be controlled with other treatments, like a root canal, it may need to be extracted.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Even if wisdom teeth have erupted, they may need to be removed if they cause pain or crowd other teeth.
- Failed Root Canal Treatment: If a tooth continues to hurt or shows signs of reinfection after a root canal, it may need to be removed.
- Orthodontic Reasons: Sometimes, teeth, like premolars, are removed to help straighten the teeth and improve bite alignment.
- Preventive Measures: Teeth that might cause problems in the future due to their position or health may be removed as a preventive step.
Erupted Tooth Extraction Procedure
The process of extracting an erupted tooth involves several steps to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety. First, the dentist reviews the patient’s medical history and takes X-rays to examine the tooth’s position and surrounding bone. Local anesthesia is then applied to numb the area, and sedation may be offered for anxious patients or complex extractions. If needed, the dentist may make a small incision to better access the tooth.
The dentist then uses an instrument to gently rock the tooth back and forth, loosening it from the surrounding tissue and bone. Once loosened, forceps are used to remove the tooth. After extraction, the socket is cleaned, and gauze is placed to control bleeding. The patient is given pain relief instructions and advised to care for the site. A follow-up appointment is scheduled to check healing and address any complications.
Closing Note
Every dentist tries their best to save your natural tooth. They use tooth extraction only as a last resort. Knowing “What is an erupted tooth extraction and how is it performed?” will help ease your anxiety regarding the procedure.
Visit Dr. Kirolls Ibrahim at Céline Dental Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics. Our seasoned dentist has earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville, Tennessee. Dial (281) 262-2332 for booking an appointment.