Extractions
There are many reasons for a tooth to be extracted, including severe tooth decay, advanced periodontal disease, crowding, or trauma. At William A Larkin DDS, our dentist in Boise, ID or oral surgeon might recommend an extraction if the tooth cannot be saved by a root canal or other dental procedures. The tooth might have broken off at the gum line or has not erupted fully through the gum line.
When Are Teeth Extracted?
A tooth is removed if it cannot be saved. Extractions can be simple or surgical. Simple extractions are done on a tooth that can be seen in the mouth. Surgical extractions involve a tooth that cannot be seen or felt in the mouth.
What Are Some Reasons for Tooth Extraction?
Wisdom Teeth
In many cases, wisdom teeth may grow sideways, only partially emerge, or remain trapped beneath the gums and bone. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause significant discomfort, swelling, and infection. If not treated, they may need to be removed.
Impacted Teeth
Sometimes, due to overcrowding in the mouth, a patient requires an extraction. Before a dental procedure is done, the patient should talk to their dentist about any concerns they have. If a tooth is impacted, the dentist may advise extraction before completing the procedure.
Crowded Teeth
Sometimes, your crowded teeth may need to be replaced. When teeth are too crowded, this can lead to crooked teeth. Straightening your teeth with braces or Invisalign can be more difficult with crowded teeth. In this situation, it’s recommended that you have an extraction and implant procedure.
Mouth Infections
When a tooth is infected, it needs to be removed. If it isn’t removed, the infection will spread and affect other teeth and the gums. In some cases, the infection will spread to other parts of the body, such as the heart or brain.
Orthodontic Complications
Sometimes, the orthodontic treatment creates so much space that teeth become loose or fall out. These situations aren’t ideal, but they are common and treatable. You may need extractions and orthodontic treatment, or you may need another type of procedure like bone grafts or soft tissue grafting.
Gum Disease
Gum disease leads to gum recession and tooth sensitivity. Gum recession causes the roots to be unprotected. This leads to cavities, sensitivity, root damage, and tooth loss.
Once a tooth has become severely decayed, the only way to restore the tooth is with surgical extraction.
Oral Cancer
Perhaps the most common dental problem that leads to extraction is oral cancer. This is a serious concern and should always be addressed by a medical professional.
When oral cancer is discovered, treatment may include a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. Both of these treatments can be as invasive as tooth extraction.
Severely Damaged Teeth
If your teeth are severely damaged, they may need to be removed. Trauma, decay, or infection can severely damage your teeth, and extraction may be the best option. If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or inflammation, call us right away!
Get in touch with William A Larkin DDS at 600 E Riverpark Ln Ste 120, Boise, ID 83706, or call (208) 344-5024 to schedule an appointment for the best dental care.
