When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?

A tooth extraction may be necessary on occasion. Severely damaged teeth cannot be repaired with dental restoration procedures such as a crown. The bones of these teeth lose their strength and thus are unable to support the teeth. If gum disease is causing this, a dentist must extract the infected teeth immediately if these cannot be restored. In a similar fashion, wisdom teeth are often extracted if they grow in an awkward position behind the molars. Here are some scenarios where your dentist will advise you to undergo a tooth extraction.

There is an infection in the mouth

This happens when decay reaches the tooth pulp. The bacteria invade the pulp and cause an infection. Tooth decay causes toothaches and discomfort. If a patient is sensitive to hot or cold drinks, it might be too late for a root canal. The dentist will try everything possible to restore the teeth. But if it is necessary, the dentist will recommend a tooth extraction.

There are impacted teeth

Impacted teeth lack “push power” to erupt beyond the gumline. In other cases, the teeth may partially erupt. There are several causes for this, including jaws that are not large enough to accommodate wisdom teeth. Impacted teeth grow at an angle toward the next tooth or the back of the mouth. These teeth are painful and prone to infection.

The dentist removes these teeth by making a cut in the gum over the tooth. The tooth is then cut into several pieces and removed. The gum is put back into place with stitches. These stitches are dissolvable and take several weeks to disappear.

Fractured teeth

Although teeth are naturally strong, they can fracture because of hard foods. Teeth can also fracture if the patient is involved in an accident or sports injuries. Fractured teeth are painful and do not provide proper oral function. This is especially in cases where fractures extend below the gumline.

Rather than invest time in a tooth with slim chances of becoming fully functional, a dentist will recommend a tooth extraction. The placement of dental implants quickly follows this because these last longer. The dentist will have to check the surrounding bone to determine the success of the operation. This operation can be completed relatively easily and fast with the help of a skilled dentist.

The cost is too high

Some situations require tooth extraction because the cost of restoration is too high. For example, removing an infection may require a full root canal followed by a restoration. Although most insurance plans are open to discussing various payment options, a patient might be in a situation where these options are not affordable. Tooth extraction is the only effective and immediate way to deal with the problem in this scenario.

What happens before a tooth extraction

The dentist will check the problem tooth and its surrounding gum tissue. The dentist will order X-rays to see how severe the damage is. This can also determine the health of the jawbone. The patient must tell the dentist about the current supplements and maintenance medications. The dentist will discuss the treatment plan when the information is complete.

During the procedure

The dentist will numb the tooth and the gum tissue around it. Loosening the tooth will follow. This will cause some pressure. Then, the dentist will lift the tooth from the socket. In some cases, the dentist might cut through the gum tissue to reveal the tooth.

Cleaning and disinfecting the socket will come next after removing the tooth. The dentist might place a bone graft in the jaw if there is jawbone loss in that section. Closing the socket with stitches might be necessary. The stitches can promote faster healing and prevent food particles from getting into the socket.

After the tooth extraction

Biting down on a sterile gauze over the extraction site can put pressure on it. This can help reduce the bleeding. It can help form a blood clot, which prevents a dry socket. There may be light bleeding throughout the day after the extraction.

Visit your dentist for a tooth extraction

In specific circumstances, tooth extraction is inevitable. If your teeth happen to cause pain or discomfort, it is time to consider a tooth extraction. Visit your dentist today for a checkup. You can also ask your dentist questions regarding the procedure and discuss whether it is the right time for a tooth extraction.

Request an appointment here: https://palmbeachinstituteofdentistry.com or call Palm Beach Institute of Dentistry at (561) 429-2196 for an appointment in our West Palm Beach office.

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