Tooth Extraction

Even though adult teeth are supposed to last a lifetime, conditions like damage, disease, and decay can occur. It is not uncommon for a tooth to be removed at some point. If left untreated, the health of the surrounding teeth and gums can become compromised. Even healthy teeth, such as wisdom teeth, are extracted to improve oral health and protect the other teeth.

Whether you or your child require a single tooth or multiple teeth to be extracted, please contact Napa Sonoma Oral Surgery & Dental Implants in Sonoma or Napa, CA. Dr. Tyler Boynton is highly skilled in tooth extractions, tooth replacements, and the safe administration of anesthesia. We will examine your oral health, explain treatment options, and walk you through every step of your oral surgery journey.

Why Extract a Tooth?

Despite our efforts, a tooth that is badly damaged or decayed may be beyond the point of saving. When this happens, our oral surgeon will safely and quickly extract it in the comfort of our office. By having a problematic tooth extracted, you prevent the issue from damaging your other teeth and oral structures. Sometimes healthy teeth are extracted in cases of dental overcrowding or as part of orthodontic treatment. 

There are many reasons why a tooth might need to be extracted:

• Severe decay, infection, or periodontal (gum) disease
• Impaction
• Dental crowding
• Alignment issues
• Prevention of oral health issues
• Broken teeth
• Root canal failure
• Orthodontic treatment

The Process of Having a Tooth Extracted

In some cases, we can extract a tooth the same day as the consultation. At this visit, we may take 3D scans of your mouth to detect any additional health concerns. Prior to extraction, we will help you select the right type of anesthesia for your comfort. Most tooth extractions are performed using local anesthesia, which numbs only the surgical area.

When having a tooth extracted, we will make sure you are comfortable after the anesthesia has taken effect. Your oral surgeon will extract the tooth using forceps, possibly using a tool called an elevator to help raise the tooth. Dissolvable sutures are placed as needed, and you are able to drive yourself home following the extraction.

Tooth Replacement Options

Teeth that are extracted should be replaced to balance facial aesthetics and restore oral function. Your oral surgeon will discuss your options for tooth replacement during the consultation. At Napa Sonoma Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we specialize in dental implant-based tooth restorations to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, and even an entire upper or lower arch of teeth. Your oral surgeon will help you choose the right type of tooth restoration for your oral health, smile goals, and financial situation.

Dental Implants

Benefits:

• Long-term results
• Able to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, and even an entire dental arch
• Looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth
• Can eat the foods you love without worry of slipping or falling out
• Prevents bone loss

Made of medical-grade titanium, a dental implant post is surgically placed into the jaw bone by an oral surgeon. Over time, the post fuses with the bone for a secure foundation and acts as a natural tooth’s root to prevent bone loss and keep the prosthesis in place. 

Full-Arch Restoration

Benefits:

• Replaces an entire upper or lower arch of teeth in one surgical visit
• Dental implant foundation provides a long-term solution
• Natural-looking
• Eat the foods you love without worry of prosthesis slipping or falling out
• Prevents bone loss

Full-arch restoration is a dental implant-based tooth replacement solution for patients with severe tooth loss. Resting on as few as four dental implant posts, a full-arch restoration can restore an entire upper or lower arch of teeth. The results are long-lasting, durable, and natural-looking. 

Traditional Dental Bridges

Benefits:

• Semi-permanent option that needs to be replaced every 5–15 years
• Existing teeth support a natural-looking prosthesis
• Restores some functionality and biting/chewing force
• Can be fixed (non-removable) or removable

Dental bridges work by bridging the space between two teeth where one or more teeth in between are missing. Dental crowns adhere to the existing teeth for a natural-looking appearance. However, some teeth may need to be ground down to ensure a proper fit. Unlike dental implants, bridges do not offer protection against bone loss. They are not as strong as dental implants and will need to be replaced due to wear and tear.

Traditional Dentures (Full or Partial)

Benefits:

• Semi-permanent option that needs to be replaced or refitted every 4–6 years
• Can replace a full arch or partial arch
• Cosmetically restores smile

Dentures sit on top of the bony ridge in the mouth and can restore the appearance of multiple missing teeth. They do not fuse to the jaw bone and prevent jaw bone loss, nor do they restore oral function. Dentures are often cheaper upfront but can cost more money in the long run due to replacements, adjustments, or damage to the prosthesis.