Types of Extractions We Perform
In this video, Dr. Gloria Stingley explains when extractions are truly necessary and how careful technique supports faster healing.
When I was in dental school, I thought I was going to become a periodontist because I believe strongly in the foundation of oral health. Periodontics is focused on ensuring good overall mouth health. After dental school, I completed a one-year residency at Fort Benning, Georgia, where I fell in love with oral surgery.
We do not remove teeth simply because we can. We remove teeth that are impacted or malaligned, and that can create problems. These issues are often easier to manage the sooner the teeth are removed. We perform all types of extractions. Some patients have what we call a mesiodens, which is a tooth in an improper position among the other teeth. This can be problematic because it may cause root resorption (damage or breakdown of the root of a neighboring tooth). We also see teeth that are malaligned in crossbites, making it difficult for patients to clean properly. In many cases, this happens because the jaw is too small for the size and number of teeth present. Those teeth may also need to be removed. Unfortunately, there are times when we must remove teeth we would prefer to save, such as front teeth or teeth used every day, but if they are severely affected by caries and are non-restorable, they must be removed as well.
This is where the beauty of mini implants comes in. We can replace those teeth with implants and restorations, sometimes on the same day. Patients heal very well when the procedure is done properly. That means taking time, carefully luxating the tooth, avoiding trauma to the mucosa, applying pressure so the gum can adhere to the periosteum (the tissue covering the bone), keeping the area clean, and irrigating with saline. All of this contributes to a good outcome. I have had patients tell me they did not need to take any post-operative medication after extractions. I believe it works, and I know it works. Dentistry does not have to hurt. It comes down to how much care you provide.
If you or someone you love is struggling with missing teeth or loose dentures, contact Carter-Rockbridge General Dentistry for a free screening to learn how our dental implant treatments can enhance your smile, improve your function, and restore your self-confidence.
