Dentist Piqua

Extractions

Third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the last set of permanent molars to emerge. These teeth are also the most likely to require extraction, due to any of several complications. However, other teeth may also require extraction if they cannot be saved by root canal therapy or other treatment. Some of the most common reasons to have teeth extracted include:

• Impacted tooth – tooth is trapped beneath bone or gums and not emerging properly
• Crowding or small mouth – emerging teeth may cause other teeth to shift or crack due to lack of space
• Decay or infection – when a tooth is affected by extreme decay or infection that cannot be corrected with filling or root canal treatment, it may require extraction

Dr. Paul Wharton may recommend the extraction of one or more of your teeth if any of these issues apply to you. During your consultation, we may also recommend sedation dentistry to make your experience more comfortable.

Post-Extraction Care

After your extraction, you will need to be driven home by a friend or family member. You will require rest, but lie with your head propped on a pillow to prevent prolonged bleeding.

We will apply gauze when your extraction is complete. When it becomes soaked, change it for a fresh piece. Use pain medication and ice pack as directed for pain and swelling. If bleeding continues beyond 24 hours, contact our office immediately.

For the first few days following extraction, limit your diet to soft foods. Avoid smoking or using a straw, as the pressures created by these actions can slow clotting and loosen sutures.

For more information or an extraction consultation, contact our office.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening treatment removes excess gum tissue from around one or more of your teeth, exposing additional tooth structure above your gumline. This may be recommended if you have a “gummy” smile or to provide better access to correct issues with decayed or broken teeth or infected gums.

During treatment, your gums are moved away from your tooth and jawbone. The bone will be smoothed, if needed, prior to reattaching the gums lower on the teeth. With more tooth structure showing above the gumline, your teeth now appear longer and your gums less prominent.

Bone Grafting

Dental implants are an aesthetic and effective solution for tooth loss. However, to place a dental implant, you must have sufficient healthy bone structure in the area where the implant will be placed. This bone serves to anchor the implant in place and ensure your tooth replacement solution is strong and long-lasting.

When teeth are lost or removed without replacement, resorption (bone loss) can occur. If we find that you have experienced bone loss in the area where you need implants, we may recommend a bone graft. A bone graft augments the healthy bone in your jaw and stimulates regeneration that further restores your jawbone structure.

Once fully healed, you will be ready to receive dental implants that will provide a solution for tooth loss and prevent further resorption of jaw bone structure.