Here at Rhoads Orthodontics, we know tooth extraction is the last thing on our Cranberry Township patients’ minds! Nobody wants to consider having to have a tooth removed, but the fact is, sometimes, that really is the best thing for your smile. Extraction therapy can be the perfect solution to an otherwise very messy problem when it comes to giving you the best possible smile and ensuring that it stays healthy and happy.
Luckily, Dr. Rhoads is an orthodontic expert, and she knows all about extraction vs. non-extraction therapy! We’ve asked her to go over the ins and outs of this sometimes uncomfortable topic, and guess what – there’s nothing to worry about! Whether you or a loved one need an extraction or not, Rhoads Orthodontic has you covered. We’ll always ensure that your treatment is the best, and now it’s time to learn about these two facets of orthodontic care.
Read on to learn more!
What is Extraction Therapy?
First things first – what even is extraction therapy? As the name suggests, extraction therapy is all about dealing with orthodontic or dental issues that are problematic enough and potentially hazardous to your oral well-being; in some cases, the best thing to do is just to get rid of the offending tooth.
To put it another way, Extraction therapy, otherwise referred to as tooth extraction or orthodontic extractions, is a procedure we sometimes employ that involves removing one or more teeth to create space and allow for the proper alignment of the remaining teeth. It is typically done as part of orthodontic treatment to correct dental malocclusions (a fancy word for misalignments of the teeth and jaws).
That means you and your doctor have decided that removal is the best step for your smile.
We’ll decide together to perform extraction therapy based on several factors, including the severity of the malocclusion, the size of the dental arches, the relationship between the jaws, and how much space there is for tooth movement. Orthodontists carefully evaluate these factors and consider the overall facial profile and what you need for a healthy bite before recommending extraction as a treatment option.
How About Non-Extraction Therapy?
So on the flip side, non-extraction therapy involves any number of different therapeutic options that do not ultimately result in the removal of a tooth or teeth. Instead, in non-extraction therapy, we’ll focus on utilizing your existing space within the dental arches and employing various techniques to create additional room for tooth movement. That way, you get the best smile possible and the healthiest bite without having to get rid of any teeth.
You’re a perfect candidate for non-extraction therapy in the event that you have the following:
Mild to moderate crowding:
Non-extraction therapy is perfect in the case that the degree of crowding is manageable and can be effectively addressed without needing a tooth removal. In that case, we’ll use standard orthodontic appliances, like braces or aligners, to gradually shift your teeth into their proper positions within the available space.
A well-balanced facial profile:
Non-extraction therapy is almost always going to be the way to go if your facial profile is already harmonious and balanced. In such cases, Dr. Rhoads will aim to maintain the natural proportions of your face without altering the tooth-to-lip relationship significantly. Lucky You!
Healthy jaw relationships and a good working bite:
Non-extraction therapy is much more feasible in the event that the relationship between your upper and lower jaws is well-aligned and your bite is relatively stable and functional. This means that your teeth fit together properly when the jaws are closed, and you aren’t dealing with any significant issues with chewing or speaking.
Dr. Rhoads Says It’s Time For An Extraction – What’s Next?
Good question! Sometimes, circumstances are such that an extraction just makes sense – but no worries! Our team is well-trained, and we use the best techniques, so you won’t have to worry about any issues.
A lot has changed for the better with orthodontic care, and these days, modern extraction therapy techniques focus on minimizing the procedure’s invasiveness. Orthodontists now employ a conservative approach, preserving as much dental tissue as possible while achieving the desired results. Minimally invasive extraction techniques reduce trauma to surrounding tissues, promote faster healing, and enhance patient comfort throughout the treatment process. That means that even if extraction is the best option for you, you won’t have to worry about excessive discomfort or any resulting orthodontic issues from the missing tooth!
We’re Your Orthodontic Cheerleaders!
At Rhoads Orthodontics, your smile is always our first priority. Whether you need an extraction or not, we’ll always work to keep you looking and feeling fantastic because our Cranberry Township patients aren’t just patients to us – you’re family! Come see what a difference family can make by filling out this form for your free consultation, or just give us a call at 724-370-8693.
You’ll love what your smile can do with Rhoads!