Once “baby” teeth fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth, extra care needs to be taken to ensure that these teeth are not damaged. Permanent teeth are designed to last a lifetime; when dentists detect potential problems on permanent teeth and gums, they tend to administer treatments and procedures meant to salvage the tooth as much as possible.
However, some instances where teeth can no longer be saved will need to be extracted. Tooth extractions are usually performed to help maintain overall oral health and prevent the spread of the issue. No matter the case, tooth extractions are almost always a last resort. If your dentist has recommended a tooth extraction, there will likely be a logical reason as to why.
Reasons Why Your Dentist May Recommend a Tooth Extraction
Tooth extractions are usually a last-ditch effort that dentists use to get your oral health back on track. Usually, if tooth extractions are recommended, it would most likely mean that all other treatment options have been exhausted first. Here are the most common reasons why a person may need to get their tooth extracted and what causes this need.
1 – Dental Trauma
One of the most common causes of needing a tooth extraction is dental trauma. If you had recently been in an accident such as a vehicular crash, there is a chance that your teeth had sustained damage on your teeth. If the injuries are severe, you may have teeth that are loose or broken. These are the teeth that may need to be removed.
2 – Tooth Overcrowding
Tooth overcrowding or malocclusion may also warrant the need for a tooth extraction. Some people may have teeth that are too large to be able to correctly fit on their jawbone. Having a few teeth removed will help their teeth grow correctly.
3 – Impacted Teeth
Impacted teeth may be another problem that may be solved by tooth extraction. This may also be a result of a tooth overcrowding issue that was never addressed. This situation may lead to a lack of space on the jawbone for the teeth to grow in, leading to impacted teeth and may also cause severe toothaches. Impacted teeth may require a more elaborate surgery to extract the tooth that is stuck in the gums.
4 – Periodontal Issues
Periodontitis is a severe version of gum disease that will affect a person’s teeth. Gum disease in its more serious form may loosen teeth and make it difficult for people to chew their food without feeling pain. Having the tooth extracted and treating the gum disease head-on will help improve your gum health and prevent further tooth problems.
5 – Severe Tooth Decay
If a tooth is severely decayed, it may be a good idea to extract the tooth instead of risk the bacteria spreading to other teeth. Also, improving one’s oral health habits will be an excellent way to prevent this problem from happening again. Remember that it will take months, if not years, for bacteria to build up on a tooth to the point where tooth decay will completely take over the tooth. Proper brushing and flossing habits will help keep your teeth and gums healthy and free from tooth decay.
Conclusion
If your dentist has prescribed a tooth extraction, you may be apprehensive. Talking to your dentist about your fear will help put your mind at ease about the procedure and ensure that you will know how to prevent needing another tooth extraction down the line.
Whether you need a tooth extraction procedure done or need to find a reliable family dentist, you will always be able to get high-quality dental services at the clinic of Dr. Thomas E. Cook. In addition to treating dental emergencies, we are proud to offer our patients an extensive range of standard dental services. From a routine checkup or cleaning appointment to extensive tooth restoration and replacement procedures, we have helped thousands of patients in the greater Raleigh, NC, area improve their oral health through our superior dental care. If you require a cheap tooth extraction in Raleigh, NC, see us today!
