Situations When A Tooth Extraction Is Necessary

If a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. However, these are not the only cases that may necessitate the need for an extraction. Read on to understand when an extraction may be recommended to you. 

• Tooth decay

Tooth decay, or cavities, are a common reason that people visit the dentist. Tooth decay occurs when a cavity forms on a tooth because of plaque and bacteria buildup. Cavities are formed when plaque and bacteria are not regularly removed through brushing and flossing. If left untreated, cavities can progress, leading to further decay, infection, and even tooth loss.

While tooth decay can affect all ages, patients who have a low immune system, poor oral hygiene, or who are prone to tooth decay are more susceptible. Tooth decay is typically a treatable condition with dental fillings and dental crowns, but advanced tooth decay can require a tooth to be extracted.

• Gum disease

Gum disease, which is also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and tissues that surround the teeth. It is caused by a sticky film of bacteria called plaque that builds up on the teeth. Gum disease can progress painlessly and unnoticed, but as it worsens, it can cause inflammation, bleeding, and tooth loosening. A tooth may need to be removed if it can't be saved with periodontics treatment. A tooth may also need to be removed if an infection has spread to the bone and soft tissues. Teeth may also need to be removed if they're too loose to stay in place.

• Impacted wisdom teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth are teeth that don't have sufficient space to grow properly. As a result, they can often grow in sideways. They can even be angled toward or away from your other teeth. When these teeth grow in, there may not be enough room for your jawbones and teeth to grow naturally or properly. This can lead to severe pain, malocclusion, or an improper bite. An impacted wisdom tooth will need the extraction to prevent pain, infection, and bite issues. 

• Orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment can help straighten your teeth and correct your bite. If your mouth is overcrowded, your orthodontist may recommend an extraction to create room for the other teeth to move or align properly. 

• Fractured tooth

Sometimes, a tooth cannot be saved with fillings or crowns. In cases of severe decay, a fracture, or a cracked tooth, the weakened tooth may need to be removed. 

• Dental crowding

When teeth are crowded, it causes misalignment, overbites, and underbites. Misalignment of teeth can cause discomfort, pain, tooth erosion, and dental decay. If a severe misalignment occurs, it may cause damage to the jaw. Tooth extraction is an option for teeth that are crowded or misaligned. 

• Dental infection

A tooth infection can be extremely painful. The infection can be contained inside the tooth, or it can spread and cause pain throughout the entire mouth. Infection can cause the teeth to discolor and sometimes cause them to develop an abscess. An abscess is a pocket of puss that forms inside the mouth, between a tooth and the gums. Such a tooth may need an extraction if it can't be saved with a root canal treatment. 

Tooth Extraction - Aftercare

Your dentist will likely recommend taking certain precautions after tooth extraction. You may be asked not to rinse or spit for 24 hours and to avoid smoking for 48 hours. You may also be asked not to eat or drink anything hot for several hours. Your doctor may also recommend rinsing with salt water several times a day.

To know more about dental extractions, call us at (833) 394-7366 and book an appointment with our dentist at 287 E. Hunt Hwy. #101, San Tan Valley, AZ 85143.