Extractions

It is always our goal to help our patients save their natural teeth. Unfortunately, sometimes it isn’t always possible to save the tooth. For situations like this, our dentists at Pike & Valega, DDS may recommend you undergo a tooth extraction.

Pike & Valega, DDS is fortunate to provide the Poolesville and Rockville community with access to an experienced dental team who can perform simple and surgical tooth extractions. Learn more about the different types of tooth extractions, why a tooth may need to be extracted, and see why our patients trust us to perform this type of dental procedure.

Reasons a Tooth May Need To Be Removed

Teeth may need to be removed for all types of reasons. Sometimes they are so damaged or decayed that they can no longer be restored with other treatment options. Other times, teeth need to be removed to prepare for future dental procedures or because they aren’t growing properly.

Some of the most common reasons for needing a tooth extraction include:

• Advanced gum disease – The bones in the jaw can be weakened by gum disease and be unable to support your teeth.
• Advanced tooth decay – Tooth decay left untreated can cause extensive damage to the tooth. If the damage is too severe, the only option may be to remove the tooth.
• Infection – A severe infection of the tooth and gums could result in the need for an extraction.
• Potential for infection – Sometimes, a tooth may not be infected but might be at risk of developing an infection in the future, such as wisdom teeth.  An extraction may be recommended as a preventative option.
• Impacted teeth – Teeth that have not erupted from the gums may need to be surgically removed before they can cause problems.
• Preparation for orthodontics – Teeth may need to be removed to create enough space for other teeth to shift into proper alignment during orthodontic treatment.
• Baby teeth have failed to fall out.

Different Types of Tooth Extraction

There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. The type of extraction that needs to be performed will depend upon several factors, including how accessible the tooth is, how damaged it is, whether it is visible or not, and your comfort.

A simple tooth extraction is usually performed when the tooth is easily accessible and visible. This procedure uses dental tools to gently rock the tooth and then remove it from the mouth.

Surgical tooth extractions, on the other hand, are often recommended when a tooth is not easily accessible, when the tooth is severely damaged, or if the area needs to be prepped for a future procedure, such as a sinus augmentation or bone graft. A surgical tooth extraction involves making an incision to the gums, sectioning the tooth, and then removing it from the mouth.

During your consultation for a tooth extraction, our dentist, Dr. D. Timothy Pike, will determine what type of extraction is best for your unique situation. He may request digital X-rays or 3D scans be performed to better understand the situation and determine what type of tooth extraction is right for you.

Both Types of Tooth Extractions Are Performed at Pike & Valega, DDS

Our patients at Pike & Valega, DDS are fortunate to have an experienced dentist who can perform both simple and surgical dental extractions. Dr. D. Timothy Pike took part in a two-year advanced dental residency that provided him with the skills and training needed to perform surgical tooth extractions.

Having an experienced dentist who can perform surgical tooth extractions on-site means that our patients rarely need to be referred out to other professionals for procedures. This prevents delays in treatment while also giving our patients peace of mind knowing that they are working with a dental team they know and trust.

Exploring Treatment Options for After Extraction

Removing just a single tooth can cause a number of problems. The space created with the tooth removal can cause bone loss, difficulty eating and speaking, and even cause the other teeth in your mouth to shift and change position. Before performing a tooth extraction, we will discuss treatment options to help you avoid these problems. Some treatment options that we may recommend include dental implants, dental bridges and dentures.

Schedule a Consultation To Speak With Dr. D. Timothy Pike About Tooth Extractions

Our patients at Pike & Valega, DDS know they can trust Dr. D. Timothy Pike when it comes to tooth extractions. His extensive experience and compassionate approach to dental care provides our patients with peace of mind knowing they are working with someone they can trust.

If you think you may need a tooth extraction, call us to schedule a consultation with Dr. D. Timothy Pike. We look forward to helping you improve your oral health and explore your treatment options.