Blog - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

What You Need to Know About Tooth Extractions

While most people would like to have a tooth pulled when they are experiencing throbbing tooth pain, there are surprisingly few instances in which your dentist would recommend a tooth be removed. Helping you retain your natural teeth is one of the dentist’s main objectives. Dr. Michael C. Stypula reminds patients with tooth pain at his Pittsburgh, PA, office that a toothache should always be checked out.

When Extraction is Necessary

  • Gum disease can destroy connective tissue and bone over time. With no support, teeth become loose. These hopeless teeth must often be removed and restored with dental implants
  • Impacted wisdom teeth cause tooth pain and may require extraction. Wisdom teeth emerge long after the full set of adult teeth and can cause crowding or decay.
  • Severe decay or infection can also be a factor. While fillings, crowns, and root canals can save the majority of troubled teeth, they may not always be enough.
  • Trauma or injury can not only cause tooth pain, but it can also necessitate tooth extraction.

The Two Types of Extraction

  • Simple extraction is performed by rocking a tooth back and forth with forceps.
  • Surgical extraction is recommended when a tooth must be accessed through the gum tissue, such as a broken tooth or an impacted wisdom tooth. Patients will often need sedation dentistry.

After the Extraction
The good news is that your tooth pain will be gone but you may have some swelling and tenderness of the gum tissue for a few days. We commonly recommend ice packs and anti-inflammatory medication for the first 24 hours after removal.


Restoring Teeth after Extraction

Our dentist usually recommends immediate restoration of your missing teeth. Dental implants and dentures or partials are the three basic options. While dentures or partials often cost less, dental implants have the advantage of permanent comfort and convenience. They also protect bone density for long term health.

If you think you need an extraction or are experiencing tooth pain in Pittsburgh, PA, do not hesitate to call our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael C. Stypula. Dr. Stypula can help you restore the health of your smile.

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