Most healthcare providers prefer to save a natural tooth whenever possible. But sometimes, dental fillings, crowns, and root canals are not enough to mend the damage. If your tooth has been badly impaired past the point of repair, tooth extraction may be necessary. Tooth extraction is a dental service where a dentist removes the entire tooth from the jawbone.
Dr. Gary Horblitt thoroughly reviews the status of badly damaged teeth, gums, and mouth. Then, he advises patients on the best possible restorative method for their health. Reach out to our Fairfield, CT office if you think you could benefit from a tooth extraction.
Humans are born with two sets of teeth: deciduous (baby) teeth and permanent (adult) teeth. Even though it’s normal for baby teeth to fall out, adult teeth are intended to last a lifetime. Still, dental extraction can be beneficial in the following circumstances:
Severe Tooth Decay
Tooth decay occurs when overgrown oral bacteria produce acids. Eventually, the acids erode the tooth’s enamel (the tooth’s hard outer surface) and cause holes in the teeth. Dentists can repair mild to moderate cavities with more conservative methods when caught in time.
Conversely, suppose cavity-causing bacteria may invade the dental pulp (innermost tissue of a tooth). If this happens, your dentist may propose pulling the infected tooth. Extraction can prevent infection from spreading to the supporting jawbone. Thus, leading to further lasting damage.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a progressive yet preventable infection. Although it starts in the gums, it spreads like wildfire and can eventually irreparably damage the periodontal ligaments, jawbone, and other surrounding dental structures.
Thankfully, gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is reversible with a deep dental cleaning and routine dental cleanings. However, neglecting gingivitis can only lead to disease escalation.
In the most advanced stages of the disease, the teeth become loose and may eventually fall out. In this circumstance, tooth extraction is the best possible restorative dental option.
Crowded Teeth
If there are too many teeth in your mouth, extraction may be necessary to prevent crowding. Occasionally, an orthodontist may recommend removing one to a few teeth to create enough room. Adequate room can help the teeth move into proper alignment when your doctor prescribes braces or clear aligner therapy.
Impacted Tooth
Sometimes, an erupting tooth becomes blocked or doesn’t have enough room to fully emerge. When this happens, it’s called tooth impaction. The term “tooth impaction” has become synonymous with wisdom teeth. Annually, millions of Americans opt for surgical wisdom teeth removal to prevent potential problems. While impaction is usually associated with wisdom teeth, other teeth (such as canine teeth) can also suffer from impaction.
Your dentist may recommend removing an impacted tooth to lower the risk of damaging other teeth, infection, and overcrowding.
Dental Injuries and Trauma
Accidents happen. In the case of dental injuries and trauma, prompt and proper management could save a tooth. But despite your best efforts, sometimes an extraction is still necessary.
If you have a dislocated, cracked, or chipped tooth after an incident, it may need to be removed and replaced.
Do you have a concerning tooth? Meet with Dr. Horblitt as soon as possible!
If you feel uneasy or unsure a troubled tooth needs to be removed, it’s worth getting a second opinion that the procedure is considered medically necessary. Call (203) 335-1011 or message us online so that we do our due diligence in saving your smile.
