Difficult Tooth Extraction

Tooth extractions are daunting enough without having to consider the various complications that may arise during the procedure. While we are, now, going to address some of those issues, speaking with your specialist is absolutely crucial and necessary. They will be able to consider your personal situation, and provide you with accurate and much needed information. That being said, let’s dive right into what you might have to consider in view of a tooth extraction.

Here are the aspects that can bring about a difficult tooth extraction:

Age – As we get older, our bones become fragile, and can be easily broken. This means there is a high probability that the teeth and jawbone are more prone to enduring some cracks and fractures.

Entry – Note that a small mouth opening or a tooth positioned very far from the entrance may bring difficulty in the removal process. Aside from the patient’s mouth size, the dentist may find it hard to grip a tooth which happens to be positioned incorrectly.

Characteristics of the tooth

• Solitary molar – If the dentist finds out through a tooth x-ray that you have a molar that has been sitting for a period of time, you may go through a situation known as “ankylosis”. In situations where the bone becomes a substitute for the ligament, the procedure will involve the use of dynamic force.

• The Extraction type – Difficult tooth extraction procedures depend on their classification. Simple extractions involve an effortless removal. In a sectional extraction, the tooth is to be pulled out piece-by-piece. Surgical extractions, on the other hand, involve a more complex procedure.

• Impacted teeth – A tooth is impacted when it does not fully rise all the way through the gums. This commonly happens for wisdom teeth but can also occur with teeth that have grown in an unusual place.

• Cavities with huge cuts – Abrasion cavities can occur as a result of vigorous brushing of teeth. Teeth that appear to be cracked are those which are likely to break easily in the middle of the extraction.
• Root-filled teeth – Teeth that are root-filled make the extraction more challenging, because they have become brittle. The mere fact that a tooth easily breaks apart during a root canal and other similar procedures makes it time-consuming. If not handled properly, the result could be uncontrollable bleeding and further infections.
• Large numbers of tooth decay – Damaged teeth due to dental caries also play a role in a difficult tooth extraction. Far-reaching tooth decay throughout the oral cavity will make the teeth become frail and fractures may easily happen.
• Tooth mobility – Tooth movement may be caused by a fractured root, and may be extracted in two divisions. The upper part can be taken out without hassle. However, the extraction of the lower half may not be easy and will need surgical removal.

The level of competency of one dentist differs from another. They may have studied the same principles but they may use different approaches when facing a difficult tooth extraction. After a thorough assessment from a general dentist, they may consider the patient’s level of comfort, and the probable risks that may arise. A dentist may decide that it is okay for them to extract the tooth, or they may refer you to another specialist.