In the past, tooth extraction was a common treatment for just about any tooth problem. Thankfully, modern dentistry now offers a variety of treatments that can save a troublesome natural tooth. Root canals are a prime example. There are still times, however, when tooth extraction is the best choice for your oral health. Here are reasons why you might need a tooth removed and common symptoms:
Severe Damage That Can’t Be Repaired
Tooth damage can come in the form of decay or dental trauma, like experiencing a sports injury. If the damage isn’t too severe, we can use restorative treatments like fillings and crowns. However, if the damage is too extensive, repair won’t be possible. In these cases, we should remove the tooth. Signs of tooth damage include increased sensitivity, tooth pain, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing.
Severe Tooth Infection
Tooth infections occur when bacteria gets inside your tooth through a cavity, chip, or crack. Common symptoms include tooth pain, increased sensitivity, gum tenderness, and a bad taste in your mouth. As soon as you notice a problem, come to our office as soon as you can. When caught early, infections can be dealt with in a way that saves your natural tooth. If the infection spreads and becomes too severe, extraction can be the only way to help.
Overcrowding or Impacted Teeth
Extraction can be necessary for overcrowded or impacted teeth. Teeth that are too close together can push your smile out of alignment and grind against each other, causing damage. It’s also harder to clean crowded teeth, which can lead to more cavities and gum disease. Impacted teeth, which are often wisdom teeth, cause symptoms like painful gums and jaw pain. If they’re not removed, impacted teeth can cause more serious problems down the line.
Tooth Extraction at Jones Creek Family Dentistry
At our Baton Rouge office, Dr. Jones will always try to save a tooth if possible. If extraction ends up being the best option, we will do everything we can to make the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If you’re concerned about a dental issue or just have questions about our practice, please contact us!
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