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We all want to have our natural teeth all our lives, but sometimes it is the healthiest option to have a tooth extracted. A cracked or infected tooth that can’t be repaired may cause further complications if not removed immediately. Being aware of the signs you need a tooth extraction will keep you from health issues and the possibility of more pain or complications down the line.
If you’re unsure if it’s time to move forward, this blog will lay out when a tooth needs to be extracted and why sometimes that’s the best.
1. Severe Tooth Pain That Doesn’t Go Away
One of the earliest signs that something is wrong is a constant or intense toothache. Some pain can be remedied by a filling or root canal, but persistent pain after treatment may be a sign that the tooth is too damaged to save. In such situations, a dentist in West Edmonton will decide whether or not a tooth extraction is required to avoid infection or save other teeth.
Pain that’s sharp, throbbing, or worsened by chewing may be a symptom of deep decay or nerve injury to the tooth. Delay for too long, and further damage will result, e.g., swelling, infection, or referred pain.
2. A Tooth That’s Broken or Cracked Below the Gum Line
Accidents or biting down on hard food can break or crack a tooth. If the damage is minor, it can often be repaired. However, when a tooth breaks below the gum line or into several pieces, saving it becomes difficult. If the root is affected or there’s not enough structure left for a crown, removing the tooth may be the only option.
This kind of break often causes pain, especially when eating or drinking. It can also lead to bacteria entering the root, which increases the risk of infection. If you’re unsure when to pull a tooth, a dental exam can help you make the right choice.
3. Signs of Serious Infection or Abscess
Infections that spread to the pulp or root of a tooth can sometimes be treated with antibiotics or a root canal. But in more advanced cases, the infection might not respond to treatment. An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, and it can become dangerous if left untreated.
Common dental extraction symptoms caused by an infection include:
- Swelling of the gums or face
- Fever
- Bad taste in the mouth
- A bump on the gums near the tooth
When infection threatens your overall health, pulling the tooth can stop the problem from spreading to other parts of the mouth or body.
4. Loose Teeth Due to Gum Disease
Gum disease, especially in its advanced stages, can damage the bones and tissues that hold your teeth in place. When this happens, teeth may become loose. While early gum disease can be treated, teeth that are already shifting or moving may not be salvageable.
If you’re asking, do I need a tooth removed, and one of your teeth is loose without trauma or injury, gum disease may be the cause. Removing a loose tooth might be necessary to keep the rest of your mouth healthy.
5. Overcrowding or Preparation for Braces
Sometimes, healthy teeth need to be removed to make space for other teeth. This is common in teens and young adults who are getting braces. If the mouth is too crowded, it can stop the rest of the teeth from aligning properly. Removing one or more teeth allows the orthodontist to move the remaining teeth into better positions.
This is also common with wisdom teeth, which may not have enough room to come in properly. A tooth extraction near you can help avoid long-term issues with crowding, misalignment, or impacted teeth.
Time to Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Knowing when it’s time to remove a tooth can be hard, but listening to your body and seeking professional help early can save you a lot of pain and problems later. Whether it’s infection, injury, or crowding, removing a tooth may be the right move to protect your smile and health.
If you’re dealing with tooth pain or think you may need a dental exam, the caring team at Capital Dental Choice is ready to help. Our experienced professionals at the dental clinic will examine your teeth and explain your best options clearly and gently. Don’t let pain control your life; call Capital Dental Choice today and schedule your visit. Let us help you get back to a healthy, comfortable smile.
