Nearly every tooth in your mouth serves an essential function and is important to your oral health. However, there are certain exceptions. Most notably, wisdom teeth (third molars) are not necessary for proper function, and they can be detrimental because there might not be enough room for them. This is one of the most common reasons for surgical extractions.
A standard extraction is commonly called “pulling a tooth.” That is an oversimplified description, but not inaccurate. Dr. Sharma grasps the tooth with a specialized tool and uses precision techniques to loosen and remove it from the socket. That is the simplest method of extraction, but it isn’t always possible. Sometimes there is not enough strong tooth structure above the gumline to firmly grip with any instrument. Sometimes there are abnormalities in the portion below the gumline that prevent the tooth from slipping out of its socket. In these instances, to remove teeth, surgery is needed.
A surgical extraction is more complex, involving several instruments and techniques. The exact process varies depending on the situation. When possible, Dr. Sharma uses a method that involves splitting the tooth, allowing him to remove it neatly in just two pieces. It is faster and more convenient for the patient and typically has a speedy, complication-free recovery.
For many patients, the thought of oral surgery is alarming. Thankfully, the expectations are much worse than the reality. Some people suffer from a broken, decayed tooth or impacted wisdom tooth until unbearable pain drives them to the dental chair. As these people could tell you, surgical extraction is a wonderful procedure with few complications and tremendous relief.
If you are postponing a visit to Dr. Sharma because you’re worried that you may need surgical extraction, here are a few things to consider:
Dentistry has advanced dramatically over the years. Modern pain relief is effective and surgical techniques are precise. Wisdom tooth removal surgery – or virtually any other modern oral surgery – is really a quite minor procedure.
We offer oral sedation, which can quell anxiety and help you feel relaxed throughout any procedure.
Elite Smiles of Pflugerville is not a typical dental office. Although we adhere to the strictest standards of sanitation and technical excellence, it does not have the cold, clinical atmosphere you might expect. You will feel more like you are visiting family than entering a medical facility.
Treating patients like family is not just a motto, it is the way we operate. Dr. Sharma's decisions and recommendations are not based on how many patients he can process in a day, or what your insurance will cover. He will give you an honest opinion about what is best for your health, just as he would for his own parent or sibling.
Dental problems are progressive. The longer you wait for care, the worse they get. If you have a concern, the best time to schedule an appointment is now.