Dental Extractions
Most extraction of teeth other than 3rd molars (wisdom teeth) is due to caries (cavities) that have done significant damage to tooth structure and have rendered the tooth non-restorable or at least a poor candidate for restoration. Other reasons include failing endo, ankylosis, retained primary teeth, supernumerary tooth, or infection.
Caries may also lead to infection of the pulp of the tooth which may then become a dental abscess or cause irreversible pulpitis (permanently damaged nerves within the tooth). In both cases, the treatment is either root canal therapy or extraction of the tooth. If there is enough tooth structure and the tooth has periodontal health (gum tissue health) then root canal therapy may be advisable. Our practice does not perform root canal therapy so if this is the case we would refer you to an endodontist who specializes in the treatment of dental pulp.
Periodontal disease, if advanced, is another reason for extraction. Periodontal disease can often be treated so referral to a periodontist, who specializes in gum and connective tissue, may be contemplated.
Keeping a diseased tooth in place without treatment can lead to local destruction of bone, damage to adjacent teeth structure and support and maybe even damage to distant organs due to bacteria or their toxins entering the bloodstream.
To preview Pre-Operative Instructions, Consent and Post-Operative Instructions along with the scheduled visits, see Surgical Instructions>Dental Extractions.
Restoration Options
When a tooth has been extracted it leaves it can leave you with different side effects. You may experience changes in speech, changes in the way you eat food, and even bone loss in the area where the tooth was extracted. You may also find you have a gap in your smile. Many patients are self-conscious about this and want to hide the fact they are missing a tooth. Smiling plays a major role in your overall happiness and health. For these reasons, it is important to consider the different options for tooth replacement and smile restoration.
Implant
Implants are the highest-quality restoration option for a single tooth. It feels, looks, and functions just like a natural tooth
Learn more about implants HERE
Bridge
A traditional bridge is a dental prosthetic which is connected to the adjacent teeth and holds a crown in the place where the extracted tooth once was.
Implant supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge is similar to a traditional bridge except instead of attaching to the adjacent natural teeth, it is attached to 2 implants that are placed on either side.
Dentures
Dentures are a full single piece prosthetic used to replace a full arch of teeth. They are removable and rely on a suction seal to remain in place which is why they may tend to come out or slide around over time.
Implant Supported Dentures
Similar to standard dentures, implant supported dentures are a single piece prosthetic used to replace a full arch of teeth. They are also removable but are made more secure by being attached to 2 implants.
All-on-4
All-on-4s are by far the highest quality restoration option for a full arch prosthetic. They consist of a single piece overdenture that is securely fastened using 4 implants. They look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.
Learn more about All-on-4 HERE
WHY Reynolds oral and facial surgery?
Reynolds Oral and Facial Surgery is one of the best oral and facial surgery teams around. With more than 20 years of experience and extensive training, we know what it takes to make sure your procedure runs smoothly. Dr. Reynolds and Dr. Gresehover have a keen eye for detail and strive to make sure to answer any questions you may have. Our team understands that medical procedures can be very nerve-racking experiences which is why we make sure you are comfortable and have the best experience possible. We also invest heavily in the most advanced surgical technology available ensuring you get the best results possible.
