Extractions and Bone Grafts in Duxbury, MA

Losing a tooth can be a traumatic experience. Despite our best efforts at Center for Progressive Dentistry, not all teeth can be saved. Even those who take the best care of their teeth can incur dental trauma and decay, necessitating tooth removal. Often the tooth is removed in order to alleviate or prevent pain and infection.

Dr. David Scardella and the team at Center for Progressive Dentistry are highly trained to handle most tooth extractions in the office. We know this can be an anxiety-inducing experience and we take great pride in our gentle and compassionate approach to help you overcome this fear.

Why Does My Tooth Need to Be Extracted?

Many reasons exist as to why a tooth may need to be extracted. Some of the most common reasons are listed below:

• Advanced decay – Extracting a tooth is always our last resort. If the decay is too extensive to treat with a filling, root canal, or crown, then pulling the tooth may be the only option.
• Infection – When a tooth becomes infected, a root canal or extraction are two treatment options that can heal the infection. After an evaluation of your tooth, our dentists will make sure you are aware of all possible options and, in some cases, removing the tooth will be recommended.
• Orthodontic purposes – Before or during orthodontic treatment (braces), the orthodontist may recommend removing baby teeth or adult teeth in order to align the teeth properly.
• Wisdom teeth – These teeth, otherwise known as third molars, usually develop between the ages of 17 and 24. Depending on their position in the jaw, the position of your other teeth, and the size of your mouth, it may be recommended that the wisdom teeth be extracted. If we think this is something you might benefit from, a referral will be given to an oral surgeon in your area.
• Preparation for dentures – If it has been discussed and dentures are your best option, your remaining teeth need to be removed. Learn more about this process here, including the option for immediate dentures, which can replace your existing teeth on the same day they are extracted.

Bone Grafting and How It Can Help Preserve Natural Bone

When teeth are removed, the bony socket and gums heal over time. During this process, the bone under the gums shrinks. This event, called resorption, is part of our natural healing process. Our jaw bones exist to hold teeth in place, and when a tooth is no longer present, the jawbone recedes.

This may become a problem when teeth need to be replaced by an implant or with dentures. Fortunately, most cases can be treated by bone grafting the empty tooth socket, thus preserving the bone for the future.

Dr. David Scardella is trained to place bone grafts to preserve your natural bone. The procedure is surprisingly simple, gentle, and quick. As you heal, your body will convert the bone graft material to your own natural bone. This graft will prevent the bone from receding for a period of time, usually at least one year. Placing the bone graft at the time of tooth removal is crucial in ensuring there will be adequate space for a dental implant.

If you think you might need a tooth or teeth extracted, please call Center for Progressive Dentistry to schedule a consult with one of our doctors.