What is a Tooth Extraction?
At Advanced Dentistry of Richmond, we are committed to making every procedure as stress-free and painless as possible. As restorative specialists, we focus on prosthodontic care and entrust surgical procedures to highly trained oral surgeons or periodontists. With your comfort and best interest as our priority, we refer tooth extractions to these specialists, who ensure the process is gentle, efficient, and performed under local anesthesia. When appropriate, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or IV sedation is also available to enhance relaxation. We emphasize the value of working with the right specialists to reduce risk and deliver the highest standard of care.
The importance of replacing teeth after they have been lost
After the loss of a tooth, timely replacement is essential. When a tooth is removed, the open space allows surrounding teeth to gradually shift – adjacent teeth move or tip into the open space, and the opposing tooth that would normally chew against the missing tooth can begin to “grow” into the new space as well. This shifting can lead to misalignment, which may contribute to chewing difficulties and jaw joint issues. Misaligned teeth can be more challenging to clean effectively, and create an increased risk for gum disease, tooth decay, or further tooth loss. In addition, misaligned teeth can make replacing the missing tooth later on more complex. This sometimes requires orthodontics, bone grafting, or additional procedures to recreate the ideal site for a tooth replacement. The best time to replace a missing tooth is soon after it is lost.
To prevent these complications, replacing the missing tooth with a suitable dental restoration is highly recommended. Options include a dental implant, a bridge, or removable partial denture. Drs. Klostermyer and Bergeron will provide personalized guidance to help determine the best solution for your needs.