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Dental professionals are in the business of saving teeth. Unfortunately, there are some instances in which tooth removal is the most ideal option. This is determined by exploring several factors, including the extent and severity of damage. In most cases, restorative options will be considered in detail before moving forward with an extraction. Here, we will briefly discuss alternative treatment options and explore five common reasons why tooth removal might be necessary. Are There Alternative Treatments Available? If you are faced with a chipped, fractured or decayed tooth, there are a variety of treatment options available depending on the severity of the situation. Small chips can often be addressed with dental bonding or porcelain veneers. Larger cracks and fractures may necessitate dental crowns. If bacteria have breached the pulp of a tooth, root canal therapy will most likely be recommended. Common Reasons for a Tooth Extraction If all of the options listed above have been explored or exhausted, then a tooth extraction may be the only viable treatment. There are certain scenarios in which tooth removal is almost always necessary. These will be explored in the sections below. Extensive Decay or Damage Small cavities can be addressed with dental fillings. Larger cavities can often be repaired with dental crowns. However, if the decay is too extensive, there may not be enough healthy tooth structure left to achieve the desired outcome. If the long-term prognosis of the affected tooth is questionable or poor, then your dentist will likely recommend an extraction. Tooth Impaction You’ve probably heard of impacted wisdom teeth. However, impaction can affect any tooth. If a tooth becomes trapped, either partially or fully, in the jawbone, it can have a tremendous negative impact on your oral health. For example, an impacted tooth can increase the risk for infection. It can also place excessive pressure against the adjacent teeth, leading to discomfort and other issues. Gum Disease Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums. This disease, if left untreated, can destroy the jawbone. The bacteria eventually seeps beneath the gum line and causes pockets to form around the teeth roots. When this occurs, patients may experience mobility and eventual tooth loss. In some cases, tooth loss can be delayed or halted with a bone grafting procedure. However, if the condition is severe, extractions may be necessary to improve and stabilize your oral health. Overcrowding Patients considering orthodontic treatment may require extractions prior to braces, especially those who have significant overcrowding. This issue can occur if you have too many teeth, or if the jawbone is underdeveloped. Though your dentist will try to keep as many natural teeth as possible, he or she may recommend removing one or more of your premolars before orthodontic treatment. This will create more space for your remaining teeth. Trauma Patients who have suffered a fall, a vehicular accident, or a sports-related injury may require extractions as part of their restorative treatment plan. The decision to extract will depend on the complexity of your case and the severity of the damage sustained. Your doctor will help you assess risks vs benefits, and will help you choose a treatment plan that is right for you. If you are experiencing dental pain from decay or trauma, a tooth extraction may be the only viable solution for you. To learn more about your treatment options, contact Texas Oral Surgery Specialists.
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