Tooth Extracions

Some dentists and orthodontists will recommend that teeth be extracted in preparation for orthodontic treatment to create space in an overcrowded mouth. Dr. Davis will always consider and discuss all alternative options that will achieve the same objective of a functional and beautiful smile without the need to extract teeth if at all possible. This is especially applicable with children who instead of having 4 teeth extracted could benefit from arch expansion treatment (treatment involves using applicances to expand the arches of the mouth to provide the space for permanent teeth to erupt into their normal place). The extraction of teeth is irreversible and cannot be taken lightly. Hence all efforts to consider alternative options should be discussed prior to such extractions which may have consequences beyond the smile to multiple adverse implications such as adverse facial profile implications. Some sleep specialists now claim that removing 4 biscuspids for orthodontics causes airway space reduction that may even contribute to apnea problems later in life. Therefore the benefits and the possible disadvantages along with alternatives to these extractions should be carefully considered before proceeding with such extractions.

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure with a relatively short recovery period. Recovery typically can be reached in just a few days.