Tooth extraction is when a dentist removes a tooth from the mouth. Dentists will try everything in their power to save teeth, but in some cases, extraction of a tooth is the best option to maintain a healthy mouth. Tooth extraction near you can be required because of damage, infection, or other oral conditions. Being aware of when a tooth should be removed can avoid pain and complications. This blog will outline the common signs that a tooth needs to be removed.
Severe Tooth Decay
Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth damage the enamel on the tooth. The damage can be repaired by a filling or crown if decay is caught early. If decay reaches the tooth, though, it can hurt the pulp. The pulp is the inside tissue of the tooth that contains the nerves and blood vessels. When this tissue gets infected, it can be extremely painful and swell.
A root canal would normally be used to preserve the tooth, but if the infection is advanced, extraction could be necessary. Extraction prevents the infection from spreading to other parts of the mouth.
Advanced Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and bones that hold the teeth in place. In the beginning, called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red. If left untreated, it becomes periodontitis, which damages the bone supporting the teeth.
If the gum disease is advanced, the teeth can loosen since there is insufficient bone support that holds them in position. The tooth might also be removed in certain instances by the dentist for the health of the neighbouring teeth and gums.
Crowded Teeth
Sometimes the mouth is too small to hold all the teeth in their proper place. This is referred to as crowding. Crowded teeth can overlap or push one another, which results in misalignment.
Occasionally, professionals prescribe tooth removal before orthodontic work, such as braces. Removing one or more teeth creates space, allowing the remaining teeth to move into the correct position.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the last molars that generally develop in the late teens or early twenties. Occasionally the teeth do not have sufficient space to grow in as normal. If a wisdom tooth is stuck inside the gum, then it is an impacted tooth.
Impacted wisdom teeth can result in pain, swelling, and infection. Impacted wisdom teeth can also cause other teeth to be pushed and become misaligned. Dentists usually advise impacted wisdom teeth to be removed in order to avoid future complications.
Broken or Fractured Teeth
Teeth may crack or break as a result of accidents, trauma, or biting hard food substances. If the fracture is small, a filling or crown will repair the tooth. However, if the tooth is broken beyond repair or if the fracture extends into the root, extraction may be the only option.
A cracked tooth that is left behind may bring pain and infection. Dentists check the wound and will say whether or not the tooth will be saved and whether or not it should be extracted.
Severe Tooth Infection
A tooth infection, or abscess, is the collection of pus that results when bacteria penetrate the tooth. It leads to severe pain and facial swelling. If left untreated, infection may spread through the body to cause major diseases.
Although antibiotics will be able to manage the infection, they do not remove the source of the issue. In most cases, the infected tooth will need to be removed to prevent further infection spread.
Baby Teeth That Do Not Fall Out
Baby teeth will generally fall out naturally to be replaced with permanent teeth. Sometimes, though, a baby tooth does not fall out when it is supposed to. That will hold up the adult tooth.
The dentist will have to remove the baby’s tooth so that the permanent tooth can come in normally. Delayed removal can cause misalignment and may require orthodontic treatment later.
Key Takeaway
Tooth extraction is not always the first choice, but sometimes it is necessary to protect overall oral health. If you feel tooth pain, swelling, or loose teeth, you should visit a dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment can help prevent serious problems and keep your smile healthy.
Get Tooth Extraction for a Healthier Smile Today!
At Capital Dental Choice, we offer effective and painless tooth extractions to maintain your oral health. Whether you have a damaged, infected, or overcrowded tooth, our experienced dentist in West Edmonton ensures a safe and comfortable procedure. We focus on your care and make every visit stress-free.
Don’t wait for the pain to get worse. Visit Capital Dental Choice today for a healthier smile!