Multiple Tooth Extraction Chicago, IL
Your teeth are the hardest substance in your body. While exceptionally strong, however, they are not impervious to damage. Taking care of your teeth helps to reduce your risk for issues, but sometimes, problems still occur. When multiple teeth are damaged, we do everything possible to restore them, using such treatments as crowns or root canals. Keeping your natural teeth is the ideal solution. In some cases, damaged teeth are not salvageable, and can harm your oral and overall health if left in the jaw. If your teeth are too severely damaged, it is best to have them extracted and replaced. Medhat Dental Excellence can help.
Why Do Multiple Teeth Need to be Extracted?
There are a few different reasons why you might need to have multiple teeth extracted:
• |
Gum disease. Gum disease is a progressive issue in which oral bacteria irritate the gums, causing them to swell. Swollen gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets. Bacteria fall into these pockets and start attacking the periodontal ligaments and the jawbone. It is also possible for bacteria to enter the teeth, causing serious infections.
|
• |
Tooth decay. Both plaque and bacteria produce acids that, when left to sit on your teeth, eat away at your enamel. This leads the formation of small pits, or cavities, in the teeth. When cavities are untreated, they grow larger, destroying the structure of the tooth. Bacteria can also enter inside the teeth.
|
• |
Facial trauma. Facial trauma can be the result of many different things, such as a car accident or a fall. These injuries can cause fractures in the teeth that extend below the gum line or even completely below the gumline. |
How are Multiple Teeth Extracted?
Prior to extracting teeth, a comprehensive oral exam is performed. During this exam, we take a look at your teeth and also take dental X-rays. The x-rays enable us to see any damage that may have occurred below the gumline. We will consider all possible options to save the tooth. If it is determined that no option will be effective, we will then move on to extraction.
There are two ways in which teeth can be extracted. The first way is called a simple extraction. This procedure, done under a local anesthetic, involves gripping the tooth and moving it back and forth to widen the periodontal ligaments. Once the tooth is loose, it is lifted free.
The second type of extraction is called a surgical extraction. This type of extraction is used for more complex cases, such as when the tooth is shattered. A local anesthetic is used, and sedation may be provided. Incisions are made in the gums to expose the roots of the damaged teeth, allowing us to remove them completely.
Recovery After Multiple Tooth Extractions
Having several teeth extracted is different from having only one tooth extracted. Your mouth will need time to heal, and it is important that you take the time to recover properly. During recovery, rest is essential. Avoid doing anything strenuous, or anything that involves bending over or lifting heavy objects. You will also need to maintain a diet of soft, nutritious foods. As you begin to heal, you can slowly resume normal activities and diet. Following your procedure, we provide you with specific aftercare instructions to help you deal with post-procedure issues such as pain and swelling. They are designed to help you have a smooth recovery.
Tooth Replacement After Multiple Tooth Extractions
After your teeth have been extracted, it is important to have them replaced. Options for replacement include:
• |
Bridges. These restorations are used to replace up to 3 missing teeth. The replacement teeth are anchored in place by dental crowns.
|
• |
Dentures. Partial dentures and same day dentures replace sections of missing teeth in your mouth. An acrylic base, made from molds of your mouth, holds your replacement teeth. The entire restoration is supported by your gums. If you have to have an entire arch of teeth extracted, a full denture may be used.
|
• |
Dental implants. This treatment involves the surgical implantation of titanium posts into your jawbone. The implants integrate into the bone and provide the support for your replacement teeth. |
While every option is considered to save damaged teeth, there are some cases in which it is not possible. In these cases, the best option is to extract your damaged teeth and replace them. If you have any questions, call Medhat Dental Excellence today at (773) 774-4611. |