Extractions in West Perth, WA
The thought of a tooth extraction can be frightening to many people, but your dentist in West Perth, WA and his compassionate team are with you every step of the way. In our dental surgery, we make sure you are comfortable and that the extraction site is thoroughly numb before pulling your tooth. You may feel pressure, but it is unlikely that you will feel pain. Patients have been surprised by the ease of the process.
If it’s the thought of having a gap in your smile that raises anxiety, don’t worry. We offer tooth replacement options when appropriate.
Dr Kinsella’s top priority is always the well-being of his patients. But sometimes maintaining excellent dental health means making the hard decision to remove a damaged or deeply decayed tooth. We understand that tooth extractions can feel overwhelming; however, our caring team is here to guide you through each step of the process, so you feel comfortable before, during and after your procedure.
And remember, Dr Kinsella offers solutions to replace missing teeth, such as dental implants in West Perth or a dental bridge. You can rest assured that we will support you throughout the entire process as you make the decisions that are right for your dental health.
If you have a broken or painful tooth and would like an evaluation—or troublesome wisdom teeth—we encourage you to reach out to our dental clinic to book an evaluation.
We also recommend reading through the headings below to learn more about the extraction and tooth replacement process.
- Reasons You May Need a Tooth Extraction in West Perth, WA
- We Emphasize Your Comfort
- Caring for the Extraction Site
- Tooth Replacement in West Perth, WA After Extraction
- Do You Have Further Questions about Tooth Extractions?
Reasons You May Need a Tooth Extraction in West Perth, WA
Patients may need a tooth removed for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Severe tooth decay
- A large crack or fracture to the gum line
- Breakdown of an old restoration
- An infected or abscessed tooth that can’t be saved with a root canal
- Wisdom teeth
- Preparation for orthodontic treatment or full dentures
Dr Kinsella views tooth extractions as a last resort in cases of aesthetics and explores all other treatment options first. He will work closely with you to ensure that you understand all the options that are available for your dental health so you can make decisions that are best for your needs.
Severe Tooth Decay in Perth, WA
In this situation, tooth replacement is usually a viable option following extraction and recovery.
Typically, when patients come into our office with severe tooth decay, they are in pain or uncomfortable, and the appointment is often a dental emergency. Dr Kinsella evaluates the tooth carefully to see if treatment can save the tooth. If treatment is not an option, we recommend extraction.
Crack or Fracture to the Gum Line
This is another situation where we can typically replace the tooth with a bridge or dental implant. If you have a break above the gum line, your dentist may be able to cap it with a dental crown and save the tooth. Dr Kinsella will explain all your options.
Breakdown of an Old Restoration
As with tooth decay and fractures, your dentist may also be able to save the tooth if the damage is not extensive. And like those options, we can typically recommend tooth replacement to restore your smile.
Infection or Abscess
In many cases, we can save an infected or abscessed tooth with root canal treatment. If the infection is too severe, however, Dr Kinsella recommends extraction to protect your neighbouring teeth.
A root canal treatment means your dentist numbs the area and gently removes the infected tissue. We close with a transient filling to encourage healing. At your next visit, we provide a permanent tooth-coloured filling or a dental crown to complete treatment.
A dental crown is a hollow cover that goes over your tooth. It is designed to look like neighbouring teeth. This restoration creates a safety zone between your bite impact and the treated tooth.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth erupt several years after your adult teeth. They are located at the back of the mouth on the upper and lower jaw. When these teeth come in normally, everything is fine. But when they don’t, you’ll experience pain and may be vulnerable to infection. Typically, this happens because the teeth only partially emerge, leaving your gum partially open, or they push on other teeth.
Fortunately, you do not need these teeth for function or aesthetics. Your dentist can carefully remove them and does so with a plan—usually, image-guided. This approach makes for an easier extraction process.
Preparation for Orthodontics or Dentures
If your jaw is too small to support an entire arch of teeth, your dentist may recommend extraction before orthodontics. Any gap created in your smile will close during your orthodontic treatment. This method allows for a better outcome.
For partial dentures, it is important that your remaining teeth are strong and healthy enough to support this option. If they are not, your dentist may recommend full extraction for a complete denture.
We Emphasize Your Comfort
Tooth extractions don’t have to be overwhelming when you work with a dental team who focuses on your needs. Dr Kinsella and his team use dental anaesthetics to ensure your comfort and that you won’t feel anything during the procedure. His gentle approach, skill, and experience also help tooth extraction procedures go smoothly.
After your tooth extraction, you will leave with specific instructions on how to care for your mouth following your oral surgery. Your West Perth dental team is available to help you if you have any questions or concerns during the recovery process.
Caring for the Extraction Site
Your dentist will always provide aftercare instructions, and these will be unique to your situation. For wisdom teeth extraction, we typically recommend not smoking or drinking through a straw for 24 hours following treatment. We may also suggest rinsing and limited chewing at the site for the first day.
You may notice soreness or mild bleeding. We may suggest gauze for mild bleeding. Your dentist can also recommend a store-bought pain reliever to see you through.
After your extraction, if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friendly team member for a chat. We are always here for our patients.
Tooth Replacement in West Perth After Extraction
It’s a good idea to consider replacing your tooth after an extraction unless it’s a wisdom tooth or your tooth is being removed for orthodontic treatment. A missing tooth can make talking and chewing food difficult, and it also impacts your dental health.
Without a tooth replacement, your neighbouring teeth may begin to drift and move into the open space. Tooth movement causes bite misalignment and can also increase the risk of gum disease or tooth decay.
Dr Kinsella offers solutions for missing teeth like dental implants or bridges. He is happy to help you select the right option to protect both your dental health and your smile.
Do You Have Further Questions about Tooth Extractions?
If you would like more information about tooth extractions or tooth replacements, we are happy to talk with you, and we welcome your call to our West Perth dental clinic.