Why do I need a tooth extraction?

If you have a tooth that is causing serious dental concerns then your dentist may recommend having it removed. Today, our Ontario dentists explain why tooth extractions may be the best option for restoring your dental health.

An extraction may be recommended due to impaction, tooth decay, periodontal or gum disease, trauma, or overcrowding of teeth. While preventive care is the best defence against many of these conditions there are some that still happen just by chance.

Tooth Impaction

In an impaction, one tooth grows directly against another, causing the tooth to become susceptible to infection. The symptoms include swelling around the jaw and difficulty opening the mouth. In addition to red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums, this condition can damage your teeth permanently.

If you are experiencing tooth impaction then it is most likely that your wisdom teeth are responsible. 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

If 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 to Your Teeth

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 of Your Teeth

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.

Would you like to learn more about tooth extraction? Contact our Ontario dentists today! Our dentists will try to answer the questions that you have and try to help the procedure go as smoothly as possible.