Oral Surgery

Extractions

Unfortunately there are times when removing a tooth or several teeth is necessary such as an infection, orthodontic correction or problems with wisdom teeth.

When it is determined that a tooth needs to be removed, Dr. Kim may extract the tooth at that time or may schedule another visit for this procedure. Depending on the complexity Dr. Kim may refer you to an Oral Surgeon. In order to extract a tooth, Dr. Kim must expand the socket and separate the tooth from the ligament holding it in place. While this procedure is typically very quick, it is important to share with your doctor any concerns you may have and discuss sedation options.

Once a tooth has been removed, the neighbouring teeth may shift, causing problems with chewing or with your jaw joint function. To avoid these complications, Dr. Kim may recommend that you replace the extracted tooth with a bridge or dental implant.

If you have any questions regarding a possible tooth extraction, please give our office a call at 519-759-7630, and we will happily answer any and all of your questions.

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the molars found in the very back of your mouth. They usually show in a patients late teens or early 20s, however may become impacted due to a lack of room in the jaw or the angle of entry.

When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it most likely will need to be removed. If it is not removed you may develop gum tenderness, swelling or severe pain.

Each patient’s situation is unique; however, if Dr. Kim recommends removal of your wisdom teeth, it is best to have them removed sooner rather than later. The earlier you have them removed, the more likely the roots will have not fully formed and the surrounding bone be less dense, which can make extraction easier, with a shorter recovery time.

To remove a wisdom tooth, your dentist first needs to numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic and provide any sedation medication, if you so choose. Because the impacted tooth may still be under the gums and imbedded in your bone, a portion of the covering bone will need to be removed to access, section and remove the tooth safely.

Once your wisdom teeth have been extracted, your healing process will begin. Healing time varies depending on the degree of difficulty related to the extraction. Dr. Kim will let you know what to expect and will provide instructions for a comfortable and efficient healing process.

For more information about wisdom teeth and possible extraction contact us.