Tooth Extraction Quiz

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woman not afraid of tooth extractionIn modern dentistry, our main goal is to provide the best level of care while keeping as much of your natural oral anatomy intact. In some cases, a tooth extraction may become necessary when other treatments have failed, or the tooth has been severely damaged. Rest assured, your dentist will extract a tooth as a last resort; but in the event that it is required, you should familiarize yourself with the procedure to help ward of anxiety. Take our quick quiz to test your knowledge.

Questions

True or False:

1. A tooth extraction is always painful, and you will miss several days of work or school.

2. Severe toothache is a sign that you need an extraction.

3. Extractions are common, and usually simple.

4. A failed root canal can lead to an extraction being necessary.

Answers

1. FALSE – Extractions are basically painless due to the vast array of anesthetic options. After your procedure you may have soreness when the medications wear off, but you should quickly be comfortable with returning to your normal activities.

2. FALSE, but possibly true. A severe toothache can be an indication that some type of treatment is necessary to relieve your pain. If restorative treatments do not work, then an extraction may become a valid option. Usually a root canal will be performed before an extraction is warranted.

3. TRUE – Extractions are extremely common, and are usually performed in the office. Depending on the tooth and number of root structures, removal can be extremely simple or a bit more complex.

4. TRUE – In the unlikely event that a root canal fails, (due to missed root, branched root, etc.) your dentist may recommend re-treatment or an extraction. Often an extraction is chosen by the patient due to financial reasons.

About Your Des Moines Dentist:

Dr. Burds will do everything he can to save your teeth and your smile, but sometimes a tooth extraction is necessary to keep your mouth and body safe. If you need a tooth extracted to save the rest of your smile, contact Gateway Dental Group in Des Moines, Iowa, at (515) 244-9565. We welcome patients from River Bend, Kirkwood Glen, East Village, and neighboring communities.