Sometimes, leaving a severely damaged or misaligned tooth is riskier than simply removing it all together.

A badly decayed or infected tooth can compromise the health of your smile without treatment. By removing the source of infection, tooth extraction improves the health of your smile and sets the stage for restorative treatment. Furthermore, removing a damaged tooth can provide significant relief from severe pain or discomfort.

Dr. Pfister only recommends tooth extraction when all other restorative options have been exhausted. It may be suggested if you have:

• Deep dental decay
• A large fracture
• Advanced gum disease
• An impacted tooth
• Sustained dental trauma from an accident or injury

In some cases, tooth extraction is necessary to prepare a patient for orthodontic treatment. This is particularly true in cases of severe overcrowding.

The first step is to undergo an initial examination with Dr. Pfister at our New Hartford office. In addition to conducting a visual assessment of the tooth, he will also take x-rays to evaluate the extent of damage within the tooth or under the gums. If Dr. Pfister determines tooth extraction is necessary, he may either set up a second appointment or move forward with the procedure immediately.

He will first numb the area with local anesthesia. We also offer nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation options to help you relax and feel more comfortable during the procedure.

Once you are fully prepped, Dr. Pfister carefully loosens the tissue around the affected tooth. If the tooth is impacted or broken, he may need to create small incisions in the gums for better access. Then, using forceps, he gently removes the tooth from its socket and cleans out any infection. In some cases, sutures are placed to promote healing and protect the surgical area. Finally, a small gauze pack is placed over the site to slow bleeding and promote blood clot formation.

Once the tooth is removed, our team can discuss replacement options with you. Filling in the space enhances the smile and prevents other teeth from shifting. Dr. Pfister may recommend a traditional bridge or a dental implant. To determine which treatment is right for you, we will consider several factors, including medical history, personal preferences, and the state of your oral health.

If you opt for a traditional restoration, we can use our in-office CEREC® machine to craft high-quality, same-day restorations while you wait. This means that no matter which replacement option you choose, we can complete all phases of your treatment here in our office.

If you have pain, swelling, or discomfort due to a damaged tooth, schedule an appointment with Dr. Pfister. He can determine the severity of your condition and determine if tooth extraction is necessary. To help our patients afford treatment, we are proud to accept CareCredit® financing, which allows individuals to make convenient, no-interest monthly payments. To learn more, or to schedule a visit, contact Aesthetic Oral Arts online or give us a call at (315) 860-8211.