There’s more than one reason to get a tooth extraction. An extraction can be a fast solution to a dental emergency or a procedure that’s thoughtfully selected to solve an ongoing problem. Who needs a tooth extraction, and why? Here’s what you need to know about getting a tooth extraction in Tampa, Florida.
Overcrowded Teeth
One very common reason for tooth extractions is overcrowding, often due to the presence of wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to grow, usually between the ages of 17 and 25.
When they grow in, they sometimes push teeth out of the way and cause teeth to become misaligned. Teeth overcrowding can also occur before the wisdom teeth grow in. Either way, if there isn’t enough room for all the teeth in the mouth, the dentist may recommend an extraction.
Tooth Decay or Breakage
A severely broken or decayed tooth can easily become infected. If an infection occurs, it’s likely to result in either an extraction or a root canal, depending on the severity of the damage. Dentists will opt for a root canal over an extraction if a root canal will fix the problem, but a root canal won’t always work.
Assuming you’d like to save your tooth through a root canal, if possible, it’s important to see the dentist as soon as you begin to notice a problem. If you’re experiencing swelling or pain around a specific tooth, or if you’re noticing extreme sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, then it’s important to see the dentist as soon as possible. The faster you see the dentist, the more likely it is that the dentist will catch the problem before it requires extraction.
Impacted Tooth
An impacted tooth is a tooth that is partially erupted from the gums, or not at all erupted. A tooth can become impacted when it becomes twisted or crooked, or when there is simply not enough space in the mouth for the tooth to erupt.
An impacted tooth can cause pain or can become infected. Extraction can help alleviate these problems. Sometimes dentists recommend extracting an impacted tooth as a precautionary measure, to avoid problems in the future.
Gum Disease
Gum disease can cause the gum and bone that support the teeth to begin to break down. When this happens, the teeth can become loose and may require extraction.
Think You Need a Tooth Extraction? Contact Weninger Dentistry
There are many reasons for dentists to perform tooth extractions, however, extractions are often considered the worst-case scenario. Your dentist will only opt for extraction if there is no other good solution to whatever dental problem you’re having. If you’re wondering whether you need an extraction, talk to your dentist at Weninger Dentistry in Tampa, Florida. Call today to make an appointment to see our dentist.