When possible, it is always ideal to save a natural tooth. Unfortunately, even the latest methods in modern dentistry won’t repair all types of dental failure. In some cases, removing a natural tooth is in the best interest of your oral health. When a tooth is damaged beyond what a filling, crown or root canal therapy can mend, a tooth extraction is often recommended. While the procedure may seem daunting, tooth removal is a simple and straightforward oral surgery that can be performed with minimal discomfort.
Here are some common reasons why your dentist may suggest an extraction of your natural tooth or teeth:
Severe Tooth Decay or Gum Disease
When decay or periodontal disease are allowed to progress, the bacteria and infection can invade the foundational structures that support your teeth and keep them healthy. Widespread decay within a tooth as well as advanced periodontitis can lead to the necessity for tooth removal. Extracting the tooth can prevent the spread of disease and allows the surrounding tissues and structures to heal.
Extensive Tooth Damage or Dental Injury
Accidents happen. Unfortunately, when a tooth (or teeth) suffers extreme damage, it may not be able to be saved or repaired. Removing the tooth and replacing it with a prosthetic option is often best when the tooth is too compromised to function going forward.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom teeth are the most common type of extraction. This procedure is typically performed on patients in their late teens to early twenties. The wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge, but they are known for causing more harm than good. Wisdom teeth may need extraction when they are impacted or crowding out other teeth in the back of your mouth.
Stubborn Baby Teeth
It is not uncommon for an older child to have permanent teeth that are ready to grow in while also having baby teeth that are refusing to fall out on their own. In such cases, removing the primary teeth can make room for the adult teeth to erupt in proper position.
Failed Root Canal
Root canal therapy is the go-to treatment for an infected tooth. However, if the infected tooth pulp is too severe, a root canal may not be successful. The tooth will need to be extracted in order to prevent worsening pain and the spread of the infection.
Preparing for Orthodontic Treatment
Tooth removal is sometimes required to prepare your smile for orthodontic treatment, which is especially true when you have extreme crowding. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to ensure this is the best course of action.
After Tooth Removal
Unless it is wisdom teeth or you are preparing for orthodontics, you will likely need to consider replacing the tooth that your dentist extracted. At Park South Dentistry, we offer a full menu of restorative dentistry options to help patients fill in the gaps of their smile, including dental implants, bridges and dentures. Call today to learn about our conservative tooth removal methods as well as what you can expect in terms of teeth replacement.
