Most people dread the idea of having their teeth pulled out. Before resorting to extracting a tooth, the dentist will always explore options to save the tooth first. Sometimes extraction is the only option because leaving the tooth in question in the mouth could pose an array of other serious problems.
So, when do you really need to have your tooth extracted?
Decay
The most common reason a dentist would recommend a tooth extraction is when a tooth can no longer be saved due to decay. Plaque build-up causes tooth decay, and the bacteria produced can cause infection. When the infection becomes severe and root canal treatment can no longer save it, tooth extraction may be needed to prevent the infection from spreading further.
Gum Disease
If detected early, gum disease is easy to treat, but if it does not receive timely treatment, it can worsen. This can lead to severe damage to your gum tissue, causing your tooth to become loose and need to be extracted.
Overcrowding
If you undergo orthodontic treatment, tooth extraction may be recommended, especially if your teeth have no space to move or realign due to overcrowding. This is usually the case for those with larger teeth in a small jaw, which contributes to unwanted crowding.
Impacted Tooth
A tooth is impacted when it is blocked from coming out, usually due to not having enough room to grow upright, so it grows inward towards the rest of the teeth. This is usually the case for wisdom teeth. You may be recommended to extract your wisdom teeth to prevent damage to your other teeth.
Accidents / Trauma
If you are in an accident, or have some trauma to your mouth and teeth, the damage caused may be too severe to save. If this is the case, tooth extraction would be the best option to prevent the damaged teeth from becoming infected.
Think you need a tooth extracted? Having your tooth extracted can be the impulse decision, especially when you’re in pain, but it may not be the best solution.
Contact us to discuss whether tooth extraction is the best option for you.