Extractions

Sometimes, dental extractions are necessary to protect your oral health and tooth function. At his practice in Denver, Colorado, Carl F. Lipe DDS, PLLC, and his team of dental professionals understand the importance of preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. However, if you have pain, sensitivity, or clear signs of an infection, a tooth extraction may be the best course of action. Don’t wait to seek help for damaged or infected teeth. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to get the care you need.

What are tooth extractions?

An extraction removes a tooth from its socket in your jawbone. The dental team at Carl F. Lipe DDS, PLLC, may recommend extractions to preserve your oral health and function if you have damaged or decayed teeth.

There are two types of extractions the team can perform:

Simple

A simple extraction involves removing a tooth that’s visible above the gumline. This procedure is relatively quick and requires only minimal downtime, if any. During the procedure, the team numbs your tooth with a local anesthetic and loosens it from the socket with a dental elevator. Next, they use forceps to pull the tooth.

Surgical

A surgical extraction is a more complex procedure in which the team removes a tooth that’s not fully visible or hasn’t yet erupted from the gumline. The team administers an anesthetic and creates an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. They may need to remove bone or break the tooth into smaller pieces to extract it fully. 

When are extractions necessary?

Tooth extractions are often necessary to preserve your oral health and function if you have:

• Impacted wisdom teeth
• Severe tooth decay
• Advanced gum disease
• Severely damaged teeth

The team may also remove primary (baby teeth) or permanent teeth to prepare for orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners.

What are the signs I may need an extraction?

Understanding the warning signs of advanced decay and damage is essential to ensure you receive the care you need. Common signs you need an extraction include:

• Severe tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Fractured or broken teeth
• Loose teeth
• Pain when chewing
• Recurring tooth infections
• Visible overcrowding or misalignment
• A tooth abscess (pus-filled sac near the tooth)

You may not realize you need a tooth extraction until you visit your dental team at Carl F. Lipe DDS, PLLC. Scheduling routine teeth cleanings every six months can help you stay on top of your oral health.

If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate a need for a tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Call Carl F. Lipe DDS, PLLC, or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about how tooth extractions can help preserve your oral health.