When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Permanent teeth are intended to last a lifetime, but sometimes a dentist must pull a tooth if it is impacted, crowded, or damaged beyond repair. After a dentist has exhausted all other treatment options, tooth extraction may be the most suitable way to treat the problem.

Here are five reasons why your dentist may recommend tooth extraction:

1. Impaction

Tooth impaction occurs when the growth of one tooth pushes directly against another. Impacted teeth are susceptible to infection, which may lead to inflamed or bleeding gums and jaw discomfort.

For example, wisdom teeth (or the third set of molars) commonly become impacted. Most people anticipate their third molars to develop during their late teen or early adult years. Wisdom teeth often do not have enough room in the jaw to grow upright, growing inward and toward the adjacent teeth. A skilled dentist must remove impacted teeth as soon as possible to avoid additional harm to other teeth.

2. Overcrowding

In addition to discomfort and infection, tooth impactions can cause overcrowding, which causes crookedness in an otherwise well-aligned smile. When dentists remove the problematic teeth, this creates more space in the jaw for the other teeth. Dentists typically eliminate overcrowded teeth before orthodontic treatment.

3. Dental Emergencies

Dental injuries range from chipped teeth to a total knock-out, and dentists base treatment on the severity. An appropriate diagnosis and timely response can improve the chances of saving the tooth in a dental emergency. However, sometimes, an accident causes the tooth to become too damaged to keep. In this instance, tooth extraction is necessary to avoid infection or further trauma.

4. Advanced Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is an irreversible gum infection caused by the buildup of bacteria on the gums and teeth. This sneaky disease burdens half of the American adults over the age of 30. Without proper oral hygiene and professional intervention, periodontitis can ruin the gums and supporting bone.

In the advanced stage of gum disease, the connective tissue that holds the teeth, gums, and bone is destroyed. Because of this, it’s likely for people to experience discomfort when chewing, foul breath or taste, or lose some teeth. Before a tooth is lost, the dentist may recommend extracting it in favor of a dental crown or bridge.

5. Tooth Decay

Similar to periodontitis, bacterial buildup causes teeth to decay. Plaque is a sticky, naturally produced film of bacteria in the mouth. When plaque isn’t removed and combines with food particles, it hardens into yellow or brownish tartar.

Tartar won’t budge with at-home brushing and flossing. When tartar develops, only a dental hygienist can remove it with a professional cleaning. If a dental hygienist does not remove the harmful tartar, these bacterial deposits can erode the enamel and weaken teeth. If the infection gets bad enough to cause intense pain and inflammation, pulling the tooth and replacing it with a bridge may help avoid further complications.

Learn More about Gentle Dental Extractions in Tucson, AZ

Though often viewed as a last resort, tooth extractions are sometimes necessary to preserve the surrounding teeth and avoid further health concerns. Dr. Payam K. Asadi and his compassionate team at Advanced Family Dentistry calmy guides patients through tooth extractions and other essential dental emergencies. Please call (520) 353-3002 to schedule an appointment at Advanced Family Dentistry today.