Tooth Sectioning

We take seriously our promise to do gentle, painless dentistry at the Bridge Smiles Dental Group. There are times, particularly in the course of orthodontic work, when it is necessary for teeth to be extracted. In those circumstances, we want patients to understand more about what we’re doing so they’ll feel at ease about tooth sectioning.

The wisdom teeth are large and are anchored by strong ligaments. Often, the reason they need to be removed is that there is not enough room for them to erupt, which means there is also not enough room for them to be removed without incisions. But sometimes, a dentist will want to cut the tooth itself apart. This is done so that it will require less force to pull or elevate out, decreasing the risk of accidental injury to the patient. It also could mean the dentist wouldn’t have to make as large an incision in the gum line. Sectioning is only done after a patient has been numbed and sedated. It is accomplished using a dental drill and a stream of water, which minimizes heat. Following the extraction, the surgical site will be sutured and patients will usually check back in a week to have the sutures removed.

Drs. Meghadri and Grewal run Bridge Smiles Dental Group at 820 US Hwy 202 North Neshanic Station, NJ, and 15 North Bridge St. Somerville, NJ. To schedule an appointment, visit Bridge Smiles Dental.