Tooth extraction and replacement of a missing tooth
Tooth extraction is a common oral healthcare procedure in which a severely decayed, damaged, or infected tooth is removed when the prognosis for saving it is poor. Extraction is usually recommended when other treatments are no longer beneficial and the long-term outlook for the tooth is weak.
The area surrounding the tooth to be removed is carefully numbed to ensure the procedure is as painless as possible. If necessary, we can provide a calming premedication before the procedure. In this case, please contact the clinic well in advance.
The thought of a missing tooth can be concerning, but fortunately there are several excellent options for replacing a missing tooth, allowing for an excellent functional and aesthetic outcome.
When does a tooth need to be extracted?
A dentist may recommend tooth extraction if the tooth can no longer be treated or if leaving it untreated could be harmful to your health.
Common reasons for extraction include advanced tooth decay, infections, severe periodontal disease, and dental trauma. Teeth may also be removed for orthodontic reasons to create sufficient space for alignment. Nowadays, however, orthodontic treatment often favors subtle interproximal reduction instead of extractions whenever possible.
Wisdom tooth extraction
Wisdom teeth are a special case, as they may only partially erupt, remain impacted beneath the gum, or grow in an incorrect position. This can cause pain, infection, and bite problems, in which case removal is recommended. However, an unerupted wisdom tooth does not need to be removed if it is not causing any issues.
According to clinical care guidelines, partially erupted wisdom teeth that are unlikely to erupt properly due to their position are generally recommended for removal before the age of 25.
In some cases, a misaligned or partially erupted wisdom tooth may cause pericoronitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. This can lead to pain, swelling, bad breath, discharge of pus, and difficulty opening the mouth.
Fortunately, oral infections of this kind can be treated by removing the improperly erupted wisdom tooth. Wisdom tooth extractions are performed either by a general dentist or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Are you experiencing pain or inflammation in a wisdom tooth? Book a dental check-up today.
Dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
Tooth extractions are typically performed by a general dentist. In more demanding cases, we may refer you to eSmile’s oral and maxillofacial surgeon. For example, a tooth may be deeply embedded in the jawbone, have long or curved roots, or be only partially erupted.
Because the complexity of an extraction varies from case to case, it is important to assess in advance whether specialist expertise is required. A surgical extraction is more complex, and at eSmile, surgical procedures are always performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Replacing a missing tooth
A missing tooth should be replaced, as the gap may cause not only aesthetic concerns but also bite problems. Adjacent teeth and the opposing tooth may begin to shift if the space remains for an extended period.
There are several options for replacing a missing tooth and restoring a natural, aesthetic smile:
- Dental implant: Often the best solution is a natural-looking dental implant. A titanium implant is placed in the jawbone to replace the tooth root. A custom-made ceramic crown is then attached to the implant.
- Dental bridge: Another option is a bridge, where adjacent teeth support a prosthetic tooth that replaces the missing one.
- Temporary bridge: If a permanent solution is not immediately possible, a temporary bridge can prevent teeth from shifting and maintain the appearance of your smile during treatment.
Dental implants require that the jawbone growth has stopped. Typically, implants can be placed at the earliest between the ages of 21 and 25. For younger clients, a temporary bridge may be used first and later replaced with an implant.
Cost of tooth extraction
The cost of tooth extraction depends on the complexity of the procedure and whether it is performed by a general dentist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The exact price cannot always be determined in advance, as a seemingly simple extraction may turn out to be more demanding than expected and vice versa.
You can find extraction prices in eSmile’s price list. A dentist can provide a cost estimate during a dental examination. You may also be eligible for partial reimbursement from Kela, which can reduce the overall cost.
How to care for your mouth after an extraction?
Proper aftercare promotes healing and helps prevent complications. During the first few hours after the procedure, it is important to avoid eating, drinking, smoking, and touching or sucking the wound area. Especially hot or coarse foods increase the risk of bleeding.
A gauze pad may be placed over the extraction site. Bite down gently on the gauze for at least 30 minutes to allow clotting to begin. Careful oral hygiene is also essential for proper healing.
The mouth contains many bacteria, making it susceptible to infection. Therefore, it is important to follow your dentist’s aftercare and cleaning instructions carefully during the days following the extraction.
Mild bleeding, swelling, pain, and difficulty opening the mouth are common after extraction. However, contact your dentist if bleeding does not stop or if the pain becomes severe.
Take a step toward a healthier, more beautiful smile
Do not delay seeking treatment if a damaged or problematic tooth is causing discomfort. A painful or infected wisdom tooth should also be treated promptly to prevent worsening complications.
eSmile’s experts specialize in aesthetic dentistry as well as comprehensive general dental care. Book an appointment with an experienced eSmile dentist and ensure you receive the best possible care – without compromising aesthetics.