Five Reasons Why a Tooth Extraction Is Necessary

A tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket. Tooth extraction is the last option considered in dental treatment, and it’s important to understand why it may be necessary.

Two Types of Extraction Procedures

• Simple Extractions: Simple extractions are performed on visible teeth and are typically done under local anesthesia.
• Surgical Extractions: Surgical extraction procedures are performed when the tooth cannot be easily accessed. This happens when the tooth has not fully erupted or has broken below the gum line.

In this procedure, the dentist may create an incision to elevate the soft tissues covering the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may be split into multiple pieces to facilitate its removal. Surgical extractions are usually performed under general anesthesia.

Five Reasons Why We Resort to Tooth Extraction

You have two sets of teeth. When the first set of teeth (often called baby teeth) falls out, the second set, the permanent teeth, replace them. Permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime. However, teeth extraction may be necessary for the following instances:

• Irreparable tooth damage due to severe decay: This happens when tooth decay reaches the center of the tooth, which is the pulp. Bacteria produced by decay can invade the pulp and cause an infection. A root canal procedure may help treat the infection. However, if the infection is severe, extraction may be performed to prevent the infection from spreading.
• A viable solution to periodontal disease: Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in dental plaque, a sticky substance that forms on your teeth several hours after eating and after not brushing. It is an infection of the gums, periodontal ligaments, alveolar bone, and other structures surrounding the teeth. In some cases, severe periodontal disease may lead to tooth loosening. When this happens, tooth extraction may be a dental option.
• Extraction may help an impacted tooth: A tooth is impacted when it is blocked from erupting or when the gums prevent it from coming through. This is usually the case for wisdom teeth. Your dentist may recommend extracting the impacted tooth to prevent it from damaging other teeth. Extracting an impacted tooth may also help lower the risk of infection and overcrowding.
• To eliminate teeth overcrowding: The extraction of one or several teeth may be necessary to eliminate the overcrowding in the mouth. This is recommended when the patient needs orthodontic treatment, and there is no room for the teeth to move and realign.

When an accident, such as a car collision, occurs and the patient requires dental treatment, the first option is always to preserve the teeth. Dental bonding, crowns, bridges, or veneers may be recommended. However, if the dental issue is severe, a tooth extraction may be required.

Extractions at Nashville Smile Creations

Dr. Mena is highly skilled and experienced in performing dental extractions. He will thoroughly check your teeth, gums, and mouth before extracting a tooth, and ensure the area where the tooth is to be extracted is completely numb. At Nashville Smile Creations, patient comfort is our first concern. Contact us to schedule an emergency consultation and review your options.