The good news about tooth extraction is that your dentist only recommends it when absolutely necessary. Yet, how does your dentist decide when tooth extraction is a good idea? Like all dental treatments, everyone’s reasons for requiring tooth extraction are different. However, the common factor is the fact that no cosmetic or restorative treatment can save or restore the tooth. Today, we examine three common cases when extracting a tooth is the best way for your dentist to restore your smile’s good health.
When a Tooth Is Damaged
Tooth damage can occur on any part of a tooth. When the tooth’s crown cracks or breaks, your dentist may be able to restore it completely with a lifelike dental crown. However, if there isn’t enough strong, healthy crown structure left, then the restoration may not have enough support to remain in place. Therefore, extracting and replacing the tooth may be the only way to restore your bite’s function and remove the threat of the damaged tooth structure.
When a Tooth Is Infected
Tooth infection, also known as tooth decay, is progressive. In its early stages, it only affects the outer layer and main body of your tooth (enamel and dentin, respectively). Restoring the cavity that forms is often simple with a tooth-colored filling, while more severe cases may need root canal therapy to treat. However, when tooth decay is so extensive that even root canal treatment cannot save your tooth, then you may need to extract it to remove the threat of the infection spreading.
When a Tooth is Impacted
One of the more common reasons for tooth extraction is a wisdom tooth (or third molar) that has become impacted. When wisdom teeth erupt, they’re often impeded by the second molars that are already present. This doesn’t stop them from growing, however, and as they do so, they can force other teeth out of alignment, lead to significant tooth damage, and more. Because they’re impacted, extracting them is necessary to alleviate these symptoms and restore your good oral health.
Ask Your Dentist About Tooth Extraction
If your tooth’s condition is too severe or if you’ve had a previous restoration fail, then tooth extraction may be the best idea to restore your smile. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Lathrop Dental Center in Katy, TX at 832-437-3849. We proudly welcome patients and families from Katy, Fulshear, Weston Lakes, Simonton, Richmond, Rosenberg, Brookshire, Wallis, Orchard, Cypress, Sealy, Columbus, and all surrounding communities.
