When there’s a question between pulling and saving a tooth, the dentist will place priority on treating and saving the damaged tooth. However, there are times when extraction becomes necessary. Here are five reasons your dentist may recommend (or insist) that you may need a tooth extraction
1. Decay
If your teeth are decaying, there is a chance your dentist might recommend extraction. The main reason your teeth may be decaying is that plaque – the result of food particles, bacteria, acid and saliva eating away at your enamel – has built up to the point that the integrity of your enamel is at risk. Your dentist’s priority is to save a damaged tooth whenever possible, but if the damage is so extensive it simply can’t be saved, extraction may be in order. Remember, your dentist will only extract the tooth when absolutely necessary, however, you are certainly entitled to a second opinion if you’re uncomfortable with the initial decision and need reassurance.
2. Infection
Taking it a step further, tooth decay is the primary cause of most tooth infection. When decay reaches the pulp of the tooth and bacteria is introduced, the tooth becomes infected. Wisdom teeth are more prone to infection, primarily because they’re located in the back of the mouth and are hard to reach when brushing and flossing. Regarding wisdom teeth, they may be infected even though they have yet to erupt. The pervading opinion among dentists is that wisdom teeth are extracted when a patient is in their late teens or early 20s.
3. Overcrowding
Overcrowding occurs for several reasons. The size of the teeth may be too large compared to the jaw’s size. Trauma to the jaw or teeth can cause overcrowding or the patient may have a cleft lip or palate. Many adults find that a baby tooth or two has yet to fall out, and sometimes, the placement of the teeth is such that pulling a tooth can make space for an even and healthy smile.
4. Impacted Tooth
When a tooth or teeth fail to erupt, they’re defined as impacted. Teeth fail to erupt when the mouth is already overcrowded, or there’s a lack of space in the jaw line for more teeth to come in. An impacted tooth may be the result of misalignment, in such case there may be another tooth that’s erupted in place of the one that was intended. Excessive soft tissue and genetic abnormality are also reasons that teeth may be impacted. If the impacted tooth is preventing other teeth from emerging or you are at risk of infection or abscess, your dentist may recommend the affected tooth/teeth be extracted.
5. Injury
A tooth that is injured during an accident might require extraction. The tooth may turn black, indicating it is broken above the gum line, and must be removed. However, discoloration of a tooth, one that turns gray for instance, following an injury, may just be bruised. The only way to be certain is via imaging. The dentist will view X-Ray’s of the affected tooth and make a decision regarding extraction. In many cases, the dentist will recommend an implant or bridge to fill the gap.
Dedicated Dental specializes in family dentistry, diagnosing and treating conditions that may require a tooth extraction. Request an appointment by calling 702-566-5509. Same day appointments are available.
