Tooth Extractions

Adult teeth are meant to last a lifetime but sometimes removing a tooth is the recommended treatment to preserve your oral health. If you have a problematic tooth that is causing pain or discomfort you should be seen by a dental professional like the oral surgeons at Alfi Oral, Dental Implant & Facial Surgery. 

Dr. Alfi will perform a complete oral exam before presenting you with all the available treatment options. If you have a problematic tooth or would like to explore your options for removal and restoration, contact us for a consultation at our office in Houston, TX. 

When to Extract a Tooth 

Many conditions or injuries may lead to a tooth extraction. Some of these conditions are treatable or avoidable if detected early, but once too much damage has occurred, an extraction may be necessary to prevent further issues from developing. Some common reasons that require a tooth to be extracted include: 

• Dental Crowding. Baby teeth or healthy teeth may need to be removed to make room so that other teeth can grow in properly. 
• Severe Infection or Decay. Tooth decay is caused by a buildup of bacteria that will eventually create a cavity. If left untreated, the decay may reach the point where an extraction is necessary to restore oral health. 
• Periodontal Disease. Gum disease affects the tissues surrounding a tooth and the bone under the gums. This is the leading cause of tooth decay and tooth loss. 
• Trauma. Injury due to an accident or trauma can fracture or break a tooth. If the damage is beyond repair, an extraction may be recommended. 
• Orthodontic Treatment. Tooth extraction can sometimes be part of an orthodontic treatment plan, such as braces. Most doctors will only remove a healthy tooth if it is absolutely necessary. 

Who Should Extract a Tooth, a Dentist or an Oral Surgeon?

Patients have a variety of options in dental professionals, and it is important to understand the differences between a general dentist and an oral surgeon. General dentists are able to begin practicing immediately after they finish dental school. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons must complete dental school and an additional 4–6 year residency program where they are given hands-on surgical training in a hospital setting. They are also trained and qualified to administer all forms of anesthesia. 

General dentists can perform simple tooth extractions with local anesthesia. Patients are typically referred to an oral surgeon when more advanced care or anesthesia is required. Oral surgeons perform simple and complex tooth extractions, including third molars and offer restoration options like dental implants as well. To learn more about tooth extraction or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alfi, contact our office in Houston, TX.

Tooth Extraction Procedure 

Your initial appointment will be a consultation to meet Dr. Alfi. During this appointment we will perform a thorough oral exam and take 3D scans of your mouth. We will also discuss your options for anesthesia and help determine the right method based on your comfort level. Most simple tooth extractions only require local anesthesia, which numbs the area and allows you to drive yourself home after the procedure is complete. In more complex extraction cases that require IV sedation you must arrange for a designated driver to stay with you during surgery and bring you home afterwards. 

On the day of your extraction your oral surgeon will deliver your chosen form of anesthesia and carefully extract your tooth. Fully erupted teeth can be removed with forceps or an instrument called an elevator. For impacted teeth an incision is required to access the tooth and safely remove it. A bone graft will also be placed to preserve the socket if a future dental implant procedure is planned. We will insert the graft material into the empty socket and place dissolvable sutures to close the area.

Tooth Extraction in Houston, TX