Tooth extraction is a procedure done to remove a tooth from its socket. General dentists perform the procedure as part of their dental services. The primary goal is always to save natural teeth. Still, in some cases, this may not be possible and removing the tooth offers a more significant benefit, like preventing further spread of infection. This article discusses the reasons a dental professional might recommend a tooth extraction.
Primary or milk teeth are the first set of teeth, but when they fall off, they are soon replaced by permanent teeth. Although permanent teeth should last a lifetime, teeth extraction may be necessary for the following reasons:
Severe tooth decay can reach the inner layer of the tooth containing the pulp. The bacterial plaque responsible for decay can cause tooth infection. In this case, root canal therapy can treat the infection. However, the dentist will recommend tooth extraction if the infection is severe to stop it from spreading.
Gum disease is an infection of the gums, which may go on to affect the gum, alveolar bone, periodontal ligaments and other structures supporting the teeth. Normally, the dentist will provide treatments to restore the health of the gums and supporting dental structures. Sometimes, gum disease, when neglected for long, may cause teeth to loosen in their socket. In this case, tooth extraction may be necessary.
An impacted tooth means the tooth is blocked from erupting from the gums. This is common with wisdom teeth. The dentist may recommend extracting an impacted tooth to prevent damages to other teeth. Tooth extraction can also reduce the risk of overcrowding and infection. Before making the suggestion, the dentist will examine and take x-rays of the affected area.
The extraction of one or more teeth on the jaw may be crucial to stopping overcrowding in the mouth. This may occur when the jaw does not have enough space to hold all of the teeth. The dentist will recommend it if the patient needs to undergo an orthodontic procedure and there is no space for the teeth to shift and realign. The dentist will check the extent of crowding, and determine how likely the teeth are to move to achieve the best dental alignment.
After an accident like an auto crash happens, and a patient suffers dental damages, the dentist will first try to save the teeth. Veneers, bonding and crowns are all options that make a damaged tooth good as new. However, in case of severe tooth damage such as breakage close to the gum line, tooth extraction may be necessary.
Some of the reasons for tooth extraction are listed above. However, the general dentist will also try to save the natural teeth whenever possible. Patients should take precautions by maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Also, promptly treating minor dental issues can prevent them from worsening to the point where tooth extraction is necessary.
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