Tooth Removal

You and Dr. Stopperich or Dr. Koutras may determine that you need a tooth removal for any number of reasons. Some teeth are removed because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.

To avoid these complications, in most cases, Drs. Stopperich or Koutras will discuss alternatives to removal as well as replacement of the removed tooth.

The Tooth Removal Process

At the time of removal the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jaw bone and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.

During the removal process you will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of firmly rocking the tooth in order to widen the socket for removal. You will feel the pressure without pain as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected. If you do feel pain at any time during the removal please let us know right away.

Tooth removal procedures can be performed with local anesthesia, nitrous oxide or IV sedation. Most often this can be accomplished with a local anesthesia but Drs. Stopperich or Koutras will discuss these options with you to determine what is best for you.