You’re at the dentist’s office and they’ve informed you that they have no choice but to extract one of your teeth. You’re upset, and that’s okay. After all, teeth don’t grow back – how will you replace it? It can be difficult to understand in the moment, but there is a bright side to look on when it comes to tooth extraction. Here’s more on 4 benefits.
1. Stop What’s Hurting You
Just like a lot of people avoid doctors unless something’s wrong, many patients don’t visit their dentist until they’re in severe pain. And by that point, in some cases, it may be too late to do much.
For instance, if you rush to the dentist because of a painful tooth fracture, the break may have resulted from a tooth weakened by decay to the point that there is no repairing it, even with root canal therapy. This is one example when your dentist may recommend extraction.
In other cases, a severe toothache could have been caused by a blow to the face that’s compromised the tooth’s structure past the point of being able to preserve it with a crown.
2. Stop Infection from Spreading
Doctors remove tumors because they’re the source of cancer that attempts to spread through the body and cause harm. Likewise, sometimes to protect the rest of your teeth, your dentist might recommend extracting an infected tooth.
Infected teeth can result from untreated cavities, gum disease, tooth fractures, or poorly managed prior dental work. If the infection is severe enough, extraction makes sense for 2 reasons: it may be too late to save the affected tooth, and your dentist is acting in the interest of keeping the rest of your smile intact.
3. Preparation for Future Treatment
Sometimes extraction is part of a larger treatment plan.
A dentist or orthodontist may recommend removing a tooth to create space for braces or clear aligners. An extraction may also be necessary before replacing a tooth with a dental implant or another restoration.
If a tooth is removed, your dentist can discuss replacement options when appropriate. Depending on your situation, possibilities may include a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture.
4. Could Make for Healthier Gums
Gum disease can start small: your gums feel kind of spongy, or you notice a little “pink in the sink” while brushing your teeth. However, it can progress to much worse stages of gum disease called periodontitis where the bone supporting your teeth is impaired, potentially leading to loose or damaged teeth.
If in their evaluation your dentist finds that the tooth can’t properly be supported anymore, they may find it necessary to remove it. Extraction can not only make it easier to manage the health of the nearby teeth and gum tissue, but it opens up your dentist’s options in their plan for maintaining your remaining teeth.
Extraction isn’t automatically the best solution for a problematic tooth. Your dentist will consider the tooth’s condition, your overall oral health, available restorative options, and your long-term goals before making a recommendation.
About the Author
Pearland dentist Dr. Kyrslyne Thomas earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Medical College of Georgia. While gaining 10-plus years of hands-on experience practicing, she’s also continued learning and staying current through advanced training and active memberships in the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. With same-day emergency appointments available and a focus on comfortable, gentle treatment, Dr. Thomas and her team are well-equipped to handle your tooth extraction. Click here to book your appointment or call (832) 520-2949.