Extraction Vs. Non-Extraction Therapy

The path to achieving a beautiful, healthy smile differs for every patient! Some patients are naturally lucky and can avoid most dental issues with daily brushing and flossing. Others need help from extraction and non-extraction therapy. But what exactly are these two options? In this blog, Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics will clear up any confusion surrounding extraction vs. non-extraction therapy so you can make informed decisions regarding your care!

What is extraction therapy?

When discussing orthodontics, we often think of braces and aligners, but sometimes, we need a little more room to make that perfect smile. That’s where extraction therapy comes in. 

Extraction therapy, in the simplest terms, is when we remove one or more permanent teeth. Why would we recommend the pulling of teeth as a treatment option? Sometimes, there’s just not enough space in your mouth for all your teeth to live happily, leading to overcrowding, which might cause your teeth to twist, turn, or overlap. 

How does it work?

We will take X-rays and conduct a thorough examination to determine which tooth or teeth need removal. On the day of the extraction, we’ll start by numbing the area with a local anesthetic to ensure you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Once the area is numb, we’ll gently loosen the tooth in its socket and remove the tooth. After removing the tooth, we’ll give you a piece of gauze to bite down on. The gauze helps to control any bleeding and aids in the formation of a blood clot, which is an essential part of the healing process.

It’s normal to experience some discomfort and swelling post-extraction. Carefully follow your aftercare instructions, including rest, applying ice to the affected area, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers for a safe and comfortable healing process.

Dr. Cowan or Dr. Whitaker might perform the extraction himself or refer you to your trusted dentist or an oral surgeon. It all depends on what your specific case needs!

What is non-extraction therapy?

Now, let’s switch gears and talk about non-extraction therapy. Non-extraction therapy means we aim to correct your smile without removing any permanent teeth. Instead, we use various orthodontic appliances to guide the growth and arrangement of your teeth, making the most of the space you’ve got.

We might not need to evict teeth from your mouth if there’s no severe overcrowding. Non-extraction therapy can be great for those with minor to moderate alignment issues.

The process of non-extraction therapy varies depending on your specific needs but usually involves one or more of the following:

• Fixed Braces. — This treatment option uses brackets, wires, ligatures, and elastic bands to improve teeth and jaw alignment. The brackets can be made of a durable mix of metals or a tooth-colored ceramic material, creating different aesthetic looks for patients to pick from.
• Invisalign. — These removable braces have replaced the brackets and wires with transparent, custom-made trays. Because there is no wire to adjust, you will wear a series of trays, each slightly different from the last, to nudge your teeth into the correct positions.
• Palate Expanders. —  These devices can be fixed or removable. They create room in the upper jaw by gently pushing the two halves of the jaw apart. We might follow this treatment with braces, depending on the patient’s needs. 

How do I know which treatment is right for me?

Choosing between extraction and non-extraction therapy can feel like a big decision, but remember, you’re not in this alone. We’re here to help you choose the treatment best for your unique goals.

Every mouth is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. That’s why the most accurate way to know which treatment option(s) is best for you is to visit Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics for a professional consultation. We’ll closely examine your teeth, consider your overall dental health, and listen to your preferences before making a recommendation.

Visit Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics to get started today!

Our goal is to ensure you have a healthy, beautiful smile you’re proud to show off. Whether that involves extraction or non-extraction therapy, you can trust Dr. Cowan and Dr. Whitaker at Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics to guide you through the process with care and expertise. For years, our orthodontists have been helping patients in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas achieve the smiles of their dreams, so you can feel confident you are getting the best care possible.

Contact our Tuscaloosa office to schedule a free consultation to get started! We invite new and current patients to see us and get their concerns addressed!