Tooth Extractions

Tooth Extractions At Your La Plata & Waldorf, MD Dentist

Whether you live in the La Plata or Waldorf, MD, area, you’ll find a trusted general dentistry offering tooth extractions as well as a variety of preventative and cosmetic dentistry services. When your tooth is badly damaged or decayed beyond repair, your local dentist can remove these dying or harmful teeth in addition to providing high-quality dental implants, bridges and dentures to restore your beautiful smile. Dr. Johnson and his friendly staff are experienced in treating the entire family, offering pediatric dentistry as well as treating adolescents and adults.


What is Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves removing a tooth entirely from its alveolus or socket. Dr. Johnson is experienced performing these extractions with either local or general anesthesia. Patient comfort is always our number one concern. Before deciding on tooth extraction, Dr. Johnson will examine and X-ray teeth to be sure there are no other alternatives for saving the tooth.
Our goal is always to keep your teeth intact as this is the best and preferred dental option. When tooth extraction is the only option, Dr. Johnson will answer all your questions while providing compassionate care.


Types of Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions can be divided into two primary types - simple extraction and surgical extraction.


  • Simple Extraction - With this type of extraction, Dr. Johnson will extract a tooth that is easily visible and accessible using forceps. A local anesthesia is used to provide patient comfort.

  • Surgical Extraction - These extractions require an incision into the connective tissue to access the tooth that needs to be removed, usually because the tooth has not fully erupted yet. A general anesthesia is usually used for patient comfort.


Why Does My Tooth Need To Be Extracted?

Your tooth may need to be pulled, or extracted for any of the following reasons:


  • Unrepairable Tooth - When the decay in your tooth reaches the center pulp, the bacteria can invade the pulp and cause an infection. If a root canal cannot solve the problem, Dr. Johnson may suggest an extraction.

  • Impacted Tooth - Your Waldorf dentist may suggest a tooth extraction if your tooth is impacted and or blocked from erupting, as is sometimes the case with wisdom teeth.

  • Advanced Periodontal Disease - When your gums, jawbone and other structures become infected, the bacteria may cause loosening of teeth. When this happens, tooth extraction is a possible dental option. A strict oral health care routine and regular checkups and cleanings with Dr. Johnson can help avoid gum disease.

  • Crowded Teeth - If your mouth is not large enough to hold all of your teeth as they erupt, Dr. Johnson may recommend multiple tooth extractions to free of space. This is common for patients who begin orthodontic treatment so that teeth have room to move into proper alignment.

  • In the case of an accident where severe trauma has happened to your teeth, Dr. Johnson will do everything he can to preserve all of your teeth. However, there are some cases in which a tooth extraction may be required.

 

Schedule Your Appointment With Christian Johnson DMD

If you have any questions about tooth extractions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Johnson for more information. He is happy to answer all your questions and provide you with the caring, excellent dental care you deserve. Call (301) 645-3230 today to schedule your checkup or first, free consultation, or request an appointment online. We look forward to welcoming you into the warm environment of our Waldorf, MD, office.