Tooth extraction is typically recommended for several reasons, including:
- Severe Decay: When a tooth is extensively decayed and cannot be restored with fillings or root canal treatment, extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection.
- Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can cause teeth to become loose due to damage to the supporting structures (bone and ligaments). In some cases, extraction is needed to improve oral health.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth can become impacted (unable to fully emerge through the gum) or grow at an angle that can cause pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth. Extraction may be necessary in these cases.
- Crowding: Sometimes teeth are extracted to create space for orthodontic treatment (braces) when there is crowding of teeth in the mouth.
- Orthodontic Reasons: In some cases, teeth might be extracted as part of orthodontic treatment to achieve the desired alignment of teeth and jaws.
- Fractured Teeth: Teeth that are severely fractured beyond repair may need to be extracted to prevent infection and pain.
- Failed Root Canal: If a tooth that has had root canal treatment becomes infected again, extraction might be the only option to address the infection.
- Supernumerary Teeth: Extra teeth that are causing issues with bite alignment or eruption of permanent teeth may need to be extracted.
In all cases, your dentist or oral surgeon will assess the situation and recommend extraction if it’s the best course of action for your oral health.
