Why do I need a tooth extraction?

Decaying or diseased teeth can pose a range of health concerns, so you may need to get one pulled at some point. In this post, our Pembroke and Deep River dentists explain why you may need a tooth extraction to preserve your oral health.

Impaction, tooth decay, trauma, overcrowding, or periodontal or gum disease can cause your dentist to recommend tooth extraction. Prevention such as general checkups and dental sealants may help to prevent some of these conditions, but others occur just by a matter of chance.

Impaction

When teeth become impacted, one tooth grows directly against another, causing the tooth to become vulnerable to infection. Symptoms include swelling surrounding the jaw and difficulty opening the mouth. In addition to red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums, this condition can cause permanent damage to your teeth.

Wisdom teeth are the most usual causes of tooth impaction. Whenever possible, it's usually best for the wisdom teeth to be removed to prevent further damage to the rest of the teeth.

Tooth Decay

Plaque and tartar buildup on teeth causes decay. By eating away at the enamel of the teeth, these deposits cause the teeth to become weak and brittle. A serious infection can develop if the condition gets bad enough, resulting in intense pain, swelling, and redness. A tooth that reaches this stage may need to be completely removed and replaced with a dental bridge.

Periodontal or Gum Disease

Plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth can lead to periodontal and gum disease. In the gums and the bone surrounding the teeth, many different conditions can develop, but gingivitis and periodontitis are the most common.

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums and surrounding teeth, while periodontitis is the inflammation of bones and tissue surrounding the teeth.

If the bone or gum around the tooth deteriorates too much, it might require removing the tooth in favour of a dental crown or bridge to preserve the surrounding teeth.

Trauma

In the case of accidents, like car crashes, teeth are likely casualties. And these accidents can wreak havoc on your oral health.

Sometimes an accident leaves a tooth too damaged to save. In these cases, we normally extract the tooth. If not, then other procedures, such as a root canal, might become necessary in order to stop infection and problems in other areas of the mouth.

Overcrowding

Removing teeth from the back of the mouth can prevent overcrowding. It can open up the rest of the mouth and help teeth to spread out as needed. This can help to preserve your smile without the need for orthodontics, like traditional braces or Invisalign.