Tooth Extraction in Tempe

A tooth extraction is the removal of a whole tooth. Our Tempe dentists perform two primary types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. Our dentists perform a simple extraction on teeth above the gumline, and surgical extractions are performed on impacted, broken, or unerupted teeth. Our Tempe dentist performs tooth extractions under local anesthesia, so discomfort is minimal. At Digital Dental Solutions, our dentists perform extractions with precision, using the latest dental technology.

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

At Digital Dental Solutions, our dentist’s priority is to preserve your natural teeth. However, in some situations, keeping a tooth does more harm than good. Our Tempe dentist will discuss every option before recommending an extraction. If removal is the best path forward, our team will walk you through the process. Some common reasons a dentist may recommend removing a tooth include:

Severe Tooth Decay

The first signs of tooth decay are small cavities here and there, accompanied by tooth sensitivity. When left untreated, decay can eat through the enamel and dentin, eventually reaching the soft inner tissue containing nerves and blood vessels known as the pulp. At this stage, a root canal is often necessary; however, when the decay is too extensive or the tooth structure is too compromised to support a crown, a tooth extraction may be the only option. Removing a severely decayed tooth removes the source of the infection, preventing it from spreading to neighboring teeth or into the jawbone.

Advanced Gum Disease

Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss. In its early stages, known as gingivitis, it is preventable with professional teeth cleaning and good oral hygiene. Advanced gum disease destroys the bone and ligaments that support teeth. When a tooth becomes loose due to this bone loss, it can no longer function properly, and a tooth extraction is recommended.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth emerge in late teens to early twenties, and often do not have enough room to come in properly. When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it is partially or fully trapped beneath the gumline, which leads to pain, swelling, infection, and even damage to the adjacent molars. Extracting impacted wisdom teeth early prevents these complications and is one of the most common dental procedures performed today.

Overcrowding

At times, our Tempe dentist or an orthodontist will plan a tooth extraction when overcrowding is present. Orthodontists frequently recommend removing one or more teeth before beginning treatment with braces or aligners. If there is not enough room in the jaw for all teeth to align properly, removing a tooth (or a few) creates the necessary space for teeth to shift into the correct position. This leads to a straighter, more functional bite and a healthier long-term outcome.

Cracked or Fractured Teeth

A cracked or fractured tooth often occurs from trauma, biting down on something hard, or years of teeth grinding. Minor cracks are often repairable with dental bonding or with a dental crown. Deep fractures that extend below the gumline or split the root are nearly impossible to treat effectively, and attempting to save the tooth often leads to repeated infections or pain. In this case, an extraction and replacement offers a more reliable, lasting result.

Dental Infections That Don’t Respond to Treatment

When bacteria enter the tooth’s pulp, an abscess can form, causing significant pain. When left untreated, the infection may spread to the jaw, neck, or even into your bloodstream. In most cases, root canal therapy will clear out the infection and seal the tooth. However, when an infection is severe or recurring, the tooth may be too damaged to save, even after a root canal.

Tooth Replacement Options

After a tooth extraction, it is important to replace the missing tooth. A replacement tooth is important for your long-term oral health, bite function, and overall appearance. Digital Dental Solutions offers several tooth-replacement options to effectively restore your smile.

Dental Implants

A single or multiple dental implant is the go-to option for missing teeth. Our dental implant surgeon in Tempe surgically places a titanium post into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They are durable, natural-looking, and help preserve bone density over time. Digital Dental Solutions also offers All-On-4 implants, which replace a full arch of teeth by strategically placing four dental implants.

Dentures

A reliable, affordable option for patients missing multiple teeth. At Digital Dental Solutions, our denturist custom-designs and creates your denture in our in-office dental lab. This allows your denture to fit more accurately and look more natural than traditional methods.

For patients who need both extractions and replacements, Digital Dental Solutions offers all-inclusive packages that bundle extractions, dentures, implants, relines, and adjustments at a single transparent price—starting at $2,995 for a single arch.

Schedule A Tooth Extraction Consultation

If you are experiencing tooth pain, a damaged tooth, or have been told you may need a tooth extraction in Tempe, do not put it off. Early treatment leads to better outcomes, with more options to save or replace the tooth.

Contact Digital Dental Solutions in Tempe at (480) 271-4600 to schedule your consultation. Our Tempe dentist will assess your dental issue and create a personalized dental plan.