Orthodontic Extractions
Creating Space for a Healthier Smile with Orthodontic Extractions at Newtown Dental

Orthodontic extractions are typically recommended when there isn’t enough space in the mouth for teeth to move into proper alignment. This overcrowding can cause issues like misaligned teeth, difficulty cleaning, and discomfort. Removing one or more teeth allows your orthodontist to guide your remaining teeth into a more functional and aesthetically pleasing position.

Common reasons for orthodontic extractions include:

• Overcrowding
  If there’s not enough space in your mouth for all your teeth to align properly, extractions may be necessary to create room for your teeth to shift into place.
• Misalignment
  Teeth that are severely misaligned or positioned incorrectly may need to be removed to allow for optimal alignment.
• Preparing for Braces or Aligners
  Before orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners can be applied, extractions may be required to ensure that there is enough room for the teeth to move into their proper positions.
• Bite Correction
  Extractions can help correct bite issues such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites by allowing teeth to move into a more balanced alignment.

When you undergo orthodontic treatment with braces, it’s important that there’s enough room in your mouth for your teeth to move into their correct positions. Orthodontic extractions are commonly performed before braces are fitted to create space, especially in cases of severe overcrowding.

Here’s what to expect during the orthodontic extraction process:

1. Consultation and Assessment
   Your dentist will begin by assessing your teeth and discussing your orthodontic goals. Digital X-rays will be taken to examine the alignment of your teeth and determine whether extractions are necessary.
2. Local Anesthesia and Sedation Options
   To ensure that the extraction is pain-free, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the tooth. For patients who feel nervous or are undergoing multiple extractions, sedation options like IV sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) are available to help you relax.
3. Tooth Removal
   The extraction itself is typically a straightforward procedure. For teeth that are visible and easy to access, a standard extraction will be performed. In more complex cases, a surgical extraction may be needed, which involves making a small incision in the gum to access the tooth.
4. Post-Extraction Care
   After your extraction, we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal quickly and prepare for your orthodontic treatment. You’ll also have a follow-up visit with your orthodontist to proceed with your braces or aligners.

The extraction procedure for orthodontic purposes is generally quick and minimally invasive. However, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. Here are a few tips for a smooth recovery:

• Control Bleeding
  After the extraction, bite down on a piece of gauze to control bleeding. Replace the gauze as needed until the bleeding stops.
• Pain Management
  Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen can help manage any discomfort after the extraction. If you experience swelling, applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek can help reduce it.
• Soft Diet
  Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup for the first few days to avoid irritating the extraction site.
• Avoid Straws and Smoking
  Refrain from using straws or smoking for at least 48 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot, which can lead to dry socket.
• Keep the Area Clean
  After 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the area clean. Be careful not to brush directly over the extraction site until it has healed.

Following your orthodontic extraction, your mouth will need time to heal before your orthodontic treatment can begin. Most patients recover from extractions within a few days, and any soreness or swelling should subside during that time. Be sure to attend any follow-up appointments to ensure your extraction site is healing properly.

Once you’ve healed, your orthodontist will proceed with fitting your braces or aligners to begin your orthodontic treatment. With the extra space created by the extraction, your teeth will be able to move into their proper positions more easily, leading to a healthier, straighter smile.