4 Signs That You May Need a Tooth Extraction

Does your tooth need to be extracted? This isn’t a decision to be made lightly; saving it will always be the preferable option, but sometimes there just might not be any choice. During a checkup, your dentist might find that the best way to save your smile is to remove one of your pearly whites. Here are 4 telltale signs that may indicate that tooth extractions in Midwest City are necessary.

1. Infection

There are many ways to fight tooth decay, whether it’s a filling for a small cavity or root canal therapy for more advanced cases. However, if the decay reaches the pulp of the tooth and is then left alone for too long, the damage it does could become so extensive that even a root canal won’t be enough to stop it. An extraction might be the only way to stop the infection from spreading any further.

For some patients, even a potential infection could be enough reason to have a tooth removed. For example, patients who are undergoing chemotherapy have weakened immune systems. Infections can be particularly dangerous in these cases, so an extraction is preferable to taking the risk.

2. Overcrowded Teeth

If your teeth are too large to fit in your mouth, they might stop other teeth from erupting properly, which can be very painful and can lead to other oral health problems. Furthermore, orthodontic treatment might not work if there’s not enough room in your mouth for adjustments to be made. In these cases, removing one tooth could be the key for creating a healthier, straighter smile.

3. Wisdom Teeth

Because wisdom teeth erupt so late, there’s usually just not enough room for them and they stay stuck under the gumline where they can damage the roots of other teeth. Even if they do erupt, their position makes them very difficult to brush and floss, meaning you’ll be at a higher risk of cavities. Due to these risks, wisdom tooth extractions are often a matter of routine that are usually performed when a patient is at the age of 18-25 years.

4. Physical Damage

Maybe you have a broken tooth in Midwest City that can’t be fixed with a crown, or maybe a cavity has advanced to the point where the tooth is now far too fragile to save. In a case where a tooth has been damaged beyond the point where any kind of repair is possible, it’s better to extract the tooth altogether.

A tooth extraction is never performed without a good reason. Talk to your dentist about your symptoms and make sure you understand why they’re making certain recommendations. Gather all the information you can to make sure you’re making the right decision that’ll let the rest of your smile last for years to come.

About the Author

Dr. Steven Kendrick is a member of the Oklahoma Dental Association and has served as a member of the adjunct faculty at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. His extensive experience has given him the knowledge and skill needed to determine when a tooth extraction is truly necessary. To schedule an appointment at his practice, Midwest Dental Center, visit his website or call (405) 732-0431.