Extractions
Tooth extraction is the dental procedure for permanently removing a tooth from its socket in the jaw bone.
At Griffith Dental Lounge offering prevention-focused treatments is always our priority. We will make every viable effort to help our patients keep their natural teeth, and extraction is always our last resort. We offer a range of alternative procedures that we will implement wherever possible, including root Canal, inlay/onlay restoration, or a crown.
There are two methods of tooth extraction: simple and surgical.
Simple Extractions
A simple tooth extraction is performed when the tooth can be removed completely intact (in one piece). The process is quite straightforward and involves the use of dental instruments to remove the tooth. This procedure is generally well-tolerated under local anaesthetic (to numb the affected area) where you will feel pressure, but not any pain. However, we do offer stronger sedative options if desired.
Surgical Extractions
A surgical extraction is performed when the tooth is either too broken down to remove whole, or otherwise cannot be removed intact. It is a more complex procedure that may include minor oral surgery. It involves raising the gum to expose the whole tooth (and can require the careful removal of some surrounding bone) before the tooth is removed in fragments and the incision is closed with sutures. Whilst this procedure can also be performed pain-free under local anaesthetic, we can offer a prescription for some relaxants before the appointment for extremely anxious patients.