What is a tooth extraction?
A tooth is surgically removed during a tooth extraction. At Hunter Dental, we always take a preventive, minimally invasive approach to treatment; as a result, we only remove teeth when a damaged tooth endangers the health of your mouth's other teeth.
This procedure is commonly called getting a tooth pulled and may be considered a dental emergency.
Why would I need a tooth extraction?
Because missing teeth can lead to other dental health problems that are expensive and time-consuming to treat, our Markham dentists prefer to avoid tooth extractions. The procedure is however required in some circumstances. Below are a few examples:
The tooth is severely infected or decayed
For a tooth with a small cavity, we can use a filling to restore its function and appearance if the decay is caught early enough.
However, if decay has advanced and brought on a serious infection, it might be difficult or impossible to restore the tooth to its pre-decay state with a root canal or crown, leaving extraction as the only available treatment option.
The tooth has endured severe damage or fractured
A tooth that is broken, chipped, or knocked out can result from a sudden injury to the mouth, such as while playing sports or falling. This is not only painful, but it also makes you more prone to infection and decay.
A fractured tooth with jagged edges can also harm the inner tissues of your mouth, including your lips, tongue, and cheeks. It is possible that your dentist will need to extract it and replace it with a dental implant or another treatment.
Your teeth are crowded
Some teeth may erupt at different times, resulting in disproportionate growth. It’s also possible that a tooth has shifted into the wrong position or become misaligned.
Whatever the cause, crowded teeth can be painful and more prone to decay because they are difficult to keep clean. Your jaw may begin to hurt. Your dentist may advise you to have the tooth extracted.
Gum disease has led to loose teeth
Advanced gum disease (periodontal disease) can cause loose teeth and tooth loss. Though our Markham dentists will do everything possible to keep you from losing teeth due to decay or disease, when teeth become loose, the only treatment option may be extraction.
What can I do if my tooth needs to be pulled?
You have a few tooth replacement options after the procedure is finished if your dentist must extract a tooth. Your dentist might suggest a dental crown, dental bridge, dentures, or dental implants depending on the details of your individual situation.
We at Hunter Dental take the time to thoroughly explain procedures and treatment options, as well as the rationale behind our recommendations. Never hesitate to get in touch with us if you need advice on symptoms or potential treatments.
