Tooth Extraction in Bloomington, IL 

Tooth extractions are sometimes an essential part of orthodontic care. This page explores why you or your child might need this procedure and how it benefits various orthodontic treatments. For 20+ years, Sugar Creek Orthodontics has helped countless people better their smiles through tooth extractions in Bloomington. To start with us, schedule a free consultation today. 

What Is Tooth Extraction?

Oral surgeons and dentists perform tooth extractions. The process typically involves numbing the area, loosening the tooth, and gently removing it from its socket in the jawbone. This procedure can solve problems with tooth decay and infection. 

Tooth Extraction & Orthodontic Care

The primary focus of orthodontic treatment is aligning teeth and correcting bite issues. At times, this requires tooth extraction. 

Our orthodontist may recommend this procedure for reasons including:

• Crowding: Extracting one or more teeth can create space in an overcrowded mouth. This can prevent problems with misaligned or overlapping teeth and make it possible to achieve a proper bite.  
• Protrusion: Protruding teeth can affect a smile’s aesthetic and functionality. Extracting them can bring the remaining teeth back into alignment, easing functional issues and creating a more balanced appearance.  
• Bite corrections: Misaligned teeth can cause an overbite or underbite. A strategic extraction can guide the rest of the teeth into better positions and remedy bite issues.
• Impacted teeth: Impacted teeth can cause pain, discomfort, infections, and other complications. Orthodontists can work with oral surgeons who will extract an impacted tooth as part of orthodontic treatment.

Benefits of Tooth Extractions in Orthodontic Treatment 

We get it: the idea of tooth extraction is far from appealing. 

However, it is important to understand extractions have significant benefits, including:

• Enhanced Confidence: Because extractions align teeth, they can also enhance facial symmetry. In turn, this can boost confidence and allow a person to speak and smile without worry. 
• Stable & Long-Lasting Results: Extractions can support various orthodontic treatments. We have used extraction to improve the effectiveness of braces and more, providing patients with stable and long-lasting results.
• Limiting Health Issues: Extractions remove bad teeth that could cause various oral health problems. This can alleviate pain and discomfort and eliminate issues compromising a smile’s strength and beauty. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extraction

Is tooth extraction painful?

While tooth extraction may cause discomfort, it is generally well-tolerated. Our orthodontist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area, minimizing any pain during the extraction.

How long does it take to recover from tooth extraction?

Recovery time from tooth extraction varies from person to person. Most patients experience minimal discomfort for a few days following the procedure. To promote healing and prevent complications, it is important to follow your orthodontist's post-extraction care instructions.

Will my teeth shift back into their original position after tooth extraction?

If your teeth are properly aligned and retained with retainers after orthodontic treatment, they are less likely to shift back into their original position. However, it is important to wear your retainers as directed by your orthodontist.

Can I eat normally after tooth extraction?

For the first few days following tooth extraction, it is important to avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soup are generally recommended.

Call (217) 769-8089 or connect with us online. We proudly serve Bloomington, Lincoln, Normal, and the surrounding areas.