Extractions

Dentists prefer to preserve your natural teeth as much as possible, but sometimes that just isn’t an option. There are two ways a tooth can be removed, depending on how severe the damage is to the tooth:

  • Simple extraction: Local anesthesia is used, which is a numbing agent either applied or injected into the extraction site. Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are visible to the naked eye. An elevator and forceps will only be needed to remove the tooth.
  • Surgical extraction: Under general anesthesia, where you are completely unconscious during the procedure, surgical extractions are performed when the tooth cannot be easily accessed. Either the tooth has not fully erupted or it has broken under the gum line. A small incision in your gum will need to be made in order for the surgeon to gain access to the tooth. Gum tissue will be pushed back and bone surrounding the problem tooth will be removed, or part of the tooth itself will be cut. This process makes it easier for your surgeon to remove your tooth with an elevator and forceps.

Tooth extractions are most commonly discussed in reference to removing wisdom teeth. However, a tooth extraction can be required for a number of other reasons, such as tooth decay, gum disease, overcrowded teeth, impacted teeth, broken teeth, and baby teeth that have not fallen out naturally.

Why You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

  • Tooth decay - this is the most common reason for removing a tooth. Patients who have avoided visiting their dentist for years may face this reality. Without the bi-yearly checkups and professional cleanings, your dentist will never be able to diagnose early onset tooth decay before it’s too late. As time goes on, your tooth will experience these stages:
  1. Tooth decay affects tooth enamel.
  2. Once worn through tooth enamel, the inner part of the tooth begins to deteriorate.
  3. As the decay eats a hole through the center of the tooth, the tooth suffers even more damage.
  4. When bacteria reach the center of the tooth, the ending result is a root canal infection.

The longer you go without treatment, the more severe the infection and damage will be. If your dentist has come to a point where your tooth cannot be saved, an extraction, followed by a bridge or implant, will be strongly recommended. Cavities detected early can be resolved with a simple filling.

  • Gum disease: Just as destructive as tooth decay in its advanced stages, gum disease attacks the gum tissue, ligaments, and bone that support the teeth. As these structures deteriorate, the teeth become looser until finally they fall out on their own or require an extraction, followed by gum disease and tooth replacement treatment.
  • Overcrowded teeth: As part of a patient’s orthodontic treatment plan, a tooth extraction may be necessary if there is overcrowding in the mouth. The extraction creates more space for the remaining teeth to be pulled and shifted into proper alignment.
  • Impacted teeth: Impaction occurs when a tooth has not fully erupted beyond the gum line, or only partially erupts. Overcrowding, a tooth that is twisted or tilted at abnormal angles, or a tooth that comes in displaced, are all reasons why a tooth may become impacted. Wisdom teeth are often impacted because the jaw is not large enough to accommodate these teeth.
  • Broken teeth: A tooth may need to be extracted when a tooth breaks at or near the gum line, making it nearly impossible to perform a tooth restoration.
  • Baby teeth: Sometimes, baby teeth can come in at an abnormal position, causing the permanent tooth underneath it to not erupt normally. Removing this baby tooth will allow the permanent tooth to erupt without issue.

Our Location

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

    Very friendly and Helpful

    I recently moved here from Green Bay where I had the same dentist for many years. He set the standard high for tooth care. We searched around this area and talked to patients from several dental offices to see what they had to say. The comments about Dr. Jamie at Two Rivers Family Dental were very good so we decided to give them a try. I came in with necessary dental work needing to be done and the normal amount of anxiety with it. I am happy to say we, "nailed it" with our choice. Dr. Jamie and her assistant Laurie could not be more thorough, personal and educational as she proceeds which helps me relax (somewhat-along with a little laughing gas)! The office from the minute you walk in till you leave is very friendly and helpful if I have any questions. She met the standard we were used to and I recommend her to everyone!!

    Sharon B. November 19th 2020

    Emergency Care

    I had an emergency for my tooth today. Two Rivers Family Dental got me in right away and the staff was fantastic!! Made me feel very comfortable! Thank you Dr. Hansen.

    Katie R. August 17th 2017

    "I can smile again"

    My teeth were in terrible shape and plus I did have one broken off ….I did not want to smile at all ….after Dr. Hansen finished fixing my teeth I can smile again... thank You Dr. Hansen and all your staff for helping me smile again.

    Joyce M. December 19th 2018

    Julie Knows Insurance

    Great dental hygienist in Tracy and fine dental work done by Dr. Hansen. Julie knows insurance better than anyone!

    Barb W. April 25th 2018

    Kind and Respectful

    I had recently got a check up and I needed a filing. They were kind and displayed the up most respectful manner in making my dental experience a positive one. I will continue to be a patient of The Two Rivers Family Dental.

    Rebecca M. Febuary 6th 2018