When Is Tooth Extraction Needed?

At Alencar Family Dentistry, we wouldn’t pull out your teeth unless absolutely required. If you incur damage to a tooth, our preferred mode of treatment is to restore it using veneers or crowns. Our dentist, Dr. Jayme Alencar Oliveira, will thoroughly check your teeth, gums, and mouth to see if extraction is needed.

However, there are times when an extraction cannot be avoided, like the following:

  • Tooth Decay

When teeth are not adequately cleaned, food particles get stuck in the gaps between the teeth. Bacteria present in the foods release an acid that substantially harms the tooth's enamel. Thus, the tooth becomes frail and loses its structure and function. The decay in the teeth could extend even to the root of the tooth.

If the tooth's damage is extensive, dentists will suggest a tooth extraction. It will be performed under anesthesia and would need one or two stitches. Proper care must be taken after extraction for speedy healing.

  • Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are molars that are present at the back of the mouth. They start to erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Infection in the wisdom teeth is quite common as they are challenging to clean because of their location. If the infection is severe, the wisdom teeth need to be removed.

Another condition called impacted wisdom teeth requires an extraction. These teeth did not erupt fully from their position and got embedded in the gums. The impacted teeth could cause infection and decay. 

  • Gum Disease

Gum disease afflicts the gums and the bones that support the teeth. It will cause inflammation and reddening of the gum tissues. If it only causes swelling in the gum tissues, it can be treated effectively. But when the whole gum and bone tissue are affected, they would not be able to support the teeth, making them come loose. 

One of the reasons gum diseases go unnoticed is because pain is minimal. Bleeding might be seen in some instances, but it gradually stops as the disease progresses. When left untreated, the whole tooth is damaged and beyond repair, requiring an extraction.

  • Overcrowded Teeth

Overcrowded teeth are common. There are various options available to rectify this problem. The most standard one is using braces to align the teeth as desired. But when there is not enough space in the mouth for all the teeth, the dentists will recommend their extraction. This will create space for the teeth to move, helping correct the bite and improve the alignment of the teeth.

  • Trauma or Accident

Accidents, falls, or sports-related injuries can cause trauma to the oral cavity region. Most of the injuries are chipped or broken teeth or teeth getting dislodged due to the force of the accident. Saving the teeth is always the first course of action, but a tooth extraction will be recommended in extreme situations.

To learn if you need a tooth extraction, call us at Alencar Family Dentistry at (757) 546-0301 and schedule an appointment. 


Location

711 Greenbrier Pkwy Suite 101, Chesapeake, VA 23320

Office Hours

MON - FRI 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

SAT - SUN Closed

Get in Touch

Email: joliveira@alencarfamilydentistry.com

Phone: (757) 546-0301

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