Tooth Removal or Extractions
Tooth extractions are used as a treatment for tooth decay, even as a treatment for gum disease. As early as the 14th century it was believed that chronic infected teeth were linked to many diseases.
- Tooth extractions are also necessary in the following cases:
- Extra teeth that obstruct other teeth from coming in
- Baby teeth that don’t fall out, which obstruct permanent teeth to come in
- Wisdom teeth if they cause pain or are infected
- Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Wisdom teeth are the last to erupt and typically do so between ages 17 and 25. Unfortunately they usually grow sideways, emerge only partially or remain completely trapped under gum and bone, which either produces no symptoms or causes these problems:
- Pain
- Swollen, red, tender or bleeding gums
- Swelling around the jaw
- Bad breath
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth near the affected area
- Headache or jaw ache
- Occasional difficulty opening the mouth
- Occasional swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- To diagnose impacted wisdom teeth,
Dr. Jasleen Benepal and Dr. Dilvir Toor, look for swollen gums or signs of infection such as tenderness, redness and drainage. They also inquire about symptoms and regular oral cleaning habits. A diagnosis can be confirmed only with dental X-rays, which may also indicate damage to other teeth or the jawbone.