Key Points

  • Tooth extraction is often, but not always, necessary prior to getting braces or other orthodontic treatment.
  • Reasons for tooth extraction before braces may include overcrowding, misalignment, gum disease, or tooth decay.
  • A dentist typically completes the tooth extraction process under local anesthesia and, in some cases, sedation.
  • Generally, it takes 2 to 3 weeks for the gums to heal after extraction before braces can be attached.
  • Discuss the risks of tooth extraction with your dentist, including the risk of infection, dry socket, or bite problems.

Tooth extraction is often necessary before getting braces, but everyone’s orthodontic journey is unique. Issues such as severe crowding and tooth misalignment may necessitate the removal of one or more teeth before orthodontic treatment. A consultation with an orthodontist may be needed to determine if tooth extraction is necessary in your specific case.

If necessary, your dentist will perform the tooth extraction procedure. If you don’t have a dentist, your orthodontist will refer you to one nearby. You may need to wait up to three weeks to have braces put on after having your teeth pulled. This allows your gums sufficient time to heal completely before undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Will I Need Tooth Extraction for Braces?

The use of dental extraction before braces has decreased over the years, but it’s often still necessary.[1] It can depend on your oral health and specific dental and orthodontic issues. Only an orthodontist can tell you definitively whether you will need to have teeth pulled before getting braces. Several orthodontic conditions may require tooth extraction. Some of these include:

  • Crowded teeth: Not all crowded teeth require tooth extraction, but cases of severe overcrowding might. Removing one or more teeth may create sufficient space for the remaining teeth to move into their proper positions.
  • Dental health: In cases of gum disease or tooth decay, dental extraction may be necessary for a healthy smile.
  • Tooth misalignment: If a tooth grows in the opposite direction as it should, then it may need to be removed to ensure proper alignment and a beautiful smile.
  • Macrodontia: Macrodontia is a condition characterized by teeth that are larger than usual. Sometimes, these large teeth need to be extracted for aesthetic or functional reasons.

There may be other reasons you need a tooth (or teeth) pulled before getting braces. Ask your orthodontist to explain the reason for tooth extraction before having any teeth removed. If you need to have teeth pulled, your orthodontist will refer you to a local dentist or oral surgeon to perform this procedure.

The Tooth Extraction Process

In cases of severe crowding, oral health problems, or other orthodontic issues, it could be necessary to extract teeth before having braces or Invisalign fitted. The number of teeth you need to have pulled will depend on your treatment plan. Here’s what you can expect during the tooth extraction procedure:[2]

  • Your dentist will apply local anesthesia to the tooth and surrounding areas to numb the area.
  • Your dentist will remove the tooth from the socket using special dental tools. Depending on the situation, incisions might need to be made, or the tooth may need to be split before extraction.
  • The tooth socket and surrounding area will be cleaned and sanitized.
  • The dentist may use a bone graft to prevent bone loss.
  • You may or may not need stitches to close the wound.

The Healing Process

After having teeth pulled for braces, it may take some time for your mouth to heal. Most dentists recommend waiting at least two weeks before having braces put on. This is to ensure that any lost gum tissue and bone have time to regenerate properly. Your orthodontist will conduct an oral examination to ensure you’re ready for braces when the time comes.

One Step Closer to the Perfect Smile

Tooth extraction is not something anyone looks forward to. It may be necessary to create enough space for the teeth to move into their new positions. Other orthodontic and oral health issues may also require you to have teeth pulled. Although this can be an uncomfortable or even frightening process, your dentist will take steps to ensure it’s as painless as possible. When tooth extraction is complete, your remaining teeth will be ready for braces, and you’ll be one step closer to the smile you deserve. Contact Kunik Orthodontics for a free consultation.

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