Reasons for Tooth Extraction

Although our “permanent,” adult teeth are meant to last us a lifetime, there are certain cases where the extraction of a tooth may be the best treatment option for your overall oral health. Here are some of the most common reasons extraction may be necessary:

Wisdom Teeth At some point most adults have their wisdom teeth removed. The reason for this is that unfortunately, they don’t typically erupt correctly. This can result in discomfort and even infection. A thorough examination by a dentist can give you insight into how your wisdom teeth might impact your overall oral health. Periodontal (Gum) Disease Gum disease is an extremely common condition that affects a patient’s oral health. As the disease progresses, the tissue and bones that support teeth become affected, leading to infection, loose teeth, and even migration. In these situations, the best treatment option may be to remove the affected tooth or teeth. Teeth Crowding Certain patients do not have enough space in their mouth for all of their teeth, causing crowding, spacing issues and on occasion completely stopping teeth from erupting. If you experience issues due to the crowding of teeth, a dentist may recommend the removal of certain teeth for better appearance and functionality. Risk of Oral Infection For patients receiving chemotherapy or those that suffer from immune disorders, an infection can be a life-threatening ordeal. If the risk of infection arises due to a tooth, the best option for the patient’s overall health may be to remove the tooth. Tooth Infection When a patient neglects their dental health, the result can often be an infection. Most times a root canal can be an effective treatment option for removing the infection. However, if the infection is severe, your dentist’s only option may be the extraction of the affected tooth to prevent the infection from spreading and causing additional damage.