When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary
Knowing When It's the Best Choice
At times, it is necessary to extract a tooth for the sake of oral health, whether due to trauma, disease, or crowding. While preserving a natural tooth is ideal, tooth extraction may be the best option in certain situations. This procedure involves the complete removal of one or more teeth from the jaw bone.
If you are in need of a tooth extraction, Cedar Grove Dental Group in Cedar Grove and the surrounding area offers this service. Our team can safely and gently extract teeth to help maintain your oral health. Contact us at (973) 857-0567 to inquire about our services or to schedule an appointment.
A Normal Procedure
Although preserving natural teeth is ideal, there are various reasons that may require tooth extraction. In cases where a filling or crown is insufficient to restore a tooth, the American Dental Association recommends extracting teeth that have experienced severe trauma, extensive decay or disease, or are causing crowding issues. It is common for patients to undergo extractions before orthodontic treatment as well.
Most tooth extractions are simple procedures that can be done in the office. For teeth that are above the gum line, we will numb the area and use forceps to remove the tooth. However, broken or impacted teeth may require a more complex extraction process.
“The American Dental Association suggests the extraction of teeth that have suffered severe trauma, have extreme tooth decay or disease, or are crowding the surrounding teeth.”
Preventing Infection
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research states that gum disease is the primary reason for tooth loss in adults. This condition occurs when bacteria penetrate below the gum line, leading to infections. If left untreated, oral bacteria can result in gum recession, jawbone damage, loose teeth, and ultimately, tooth loss.
Studies have indicated that chronic dental infections can trigger inflammation that contributes to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and various other related illnesses. While a root canal may be effective in saving a decayed tooth, there are instances where a tooth cannot be salvaged due to structural and stability issues. In such cases, tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of damaging decay and infection.
“Tooth extraction can prevent damaging decay and infection from spreading.”
Overcrowded or Impacted Teeth
In some cases, it is beneficial to have crowded or impacted teeth extracted. Impacted wisdom teeth do not have enough room to grow. Extraction can prevent pain, infection, and other dental problems. While not all wisdom teeth need removal, it is necessary once they start causing problems. In some cases, wisdom teeth do not fully break through the gums and can cause crowding issues. A partially erupted wisdom tooth is especially susceptible to cavities.
Patients may also need teeth extracted before receiving braces. Orthodontics involves the process of properly aligning the teeth, which may be tough without enough room. Crowded teeth increase a patient’s risk of developing gum disease and cavities. Extracting teeth can relieve crowding and impacted teeth.
“Extraction can prevent pain, infection, and other dental problems.”
Tooth Restoration May Not Be Sufficient
In most cases, the initial solution for a damaged tooth is either a crown or filling. However, if the damage is extensive, attempting to salvage the tooth could jeopardize oral health. A filling may weaken the tooth, while a crown may not be feasible due to lack of support. Additionally, root canals may not be an option if the tooth is severely damaged.
Every tooth has a limit to how many times it can be repaired before it becomes compromised. Repeatedly replacing crowns or undergoing root canals only delays the inevitable. After multiple fillings, crowns, and root canals, there may not be enough of the tooth left to save. In such cases, tooth extraction is often the best choice for maintaining oral health.
“If the damage is too severe, trying to save a tooth may put oral health at further risk.”
Trauma and Tooth Extraction
Teeth are strong but not invincible. Dental injuries can happen from various accidents like sports injuries, car accidents, or even a simple fall. If a tooth is severely damaged and cannot be restored, extraction may be required.
It is important for patients to seek prompt treatment after a tooth injury to improve their chances of a successful outcome. Our team can identify any hidden damage that may not be immediately apparent. In cases where a tooth is severely fractured and cannot be saved, extraction may be the only option. It is crucial for patients to take any dental injury seriously, no matter how minor it may seem.
