At your last routine checkup, did your dentist say you needed a tooth extraction? If so, you may be tempted to put off your appointment for as long as possible. While oral surgery may sound daunting, it’s not as bad as you think! It’s also necessary to ensure the long-term health and future of your smile. Dentists don’t recommend this procedure haphazardly, which means there’s a significant reason why you need it. Below, you’ll learn a few reasons why a tooth extraction is necessary.
Severe Tooth Decay
When tooth decay reaches the inner pulp, it can cause irreparable damage. The bacteria produced by decay can invade the pulp and cause an infection. In that case, a root canal treatment may be able to stop the infection. But if your condition is severe, a tooth extraction may be the only viable solution to stop the infection from spreading.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and other structures surrounding the teeth. While the earlier stage (gingivitis) only affects the gums, the more severe kind can impact the periodontal ligaments and alveolar bone. This condition is often the result of plaque and tartar buildup, which develops from poor oral hygiene. In some cases, periodontal disease results in the loosening of a tooth. An extraction may be necessary to restore a patient’s oral health.
Impacted Tooth
When a tooth is blocked from coming out or the gums did not fully erupt, it can result in an impacted tooth. This is most often the case for wisdom teeth. Your dentist may recommend an extraction to prevent it from damaging other teeth. Additionally, it can help lower the risk of infection and overcrowding.
Eliminate Teeth Overcrowding
Pulling one or more teeth is sometimes necessary to eliminate overcrowding in the mouth. It’s often recommended in cases where a patient has to undergo orthodontic treatment and there is no room for the teeth to move. If there isn’t enough space to properly align your teeth, your orthodontist may recommend a tooth extraction.
Following an Accident
Dentists will do everything possible to preserve natural teeth. However, it can be difficult to do that in extreme cases, like following a car collision or another type of accident. A tooth extraction may be necessary if your tooth is damaged beyond repair.
As you can see, there are many different reasons why a tooth extraction may be recommended. Rest assured – your dentist will do everything possible to ensure your procedure is comfortable and smooth sailing!
About the Practice
At Galleria Dental of Springfield, we strive to offer high-quality and personalized dental care that’ll exceed even your highest expectations. Our goal is to provide service that’ll leave you smiling after every appointment. If you have any questions about your tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to ask. You can reach our team via our website or call (417) 887-5757.