Sometimes teeth can be damaged beyond repair. When a tooth is not salvageable or is a threat to neighboring oral structures, a dentist may need to perform an extraction. Tooth extractions might be necessary when teeth are broken, badly decayed, impacted, or contributing to orthodontic concerns. Following are common scenarios where tooth extractions are recommended.
Severe Tooth Decay
Most tooth decay is treatable with small restorations like fillings when cavities are in their earliest stages. Since teeth cannot self-repair, untreated tooth decay will worsen without treatment. Advanced tooth decay can be so severe that a tooth becomes deeply infected.
Removing an irreparably decayed tooth can prevent infections from spreading to other teeth, the gums, and bone. It will also eliminate the discomfort associated with failing teeth.
Dental Trauma
Accidental traumas can lead to broken, chipped, and cracked teeth. While many teeth can be salvaged with restorations and endodontic care, some teeth may not be repairable – especially if most of its structure above the gums is broken or chipped.
Impacted Teeth
An impacted tooth cannot erupt properly because it is stuck in the jawbone and/or the gums. Sometimes, teeth become impacted due to overcrowding during tooth transition or when wisdom teeth begin to emerge. Since impacted teeth can affect adjacent structures and contribute to oral function and orthodontic concerns, their extraction is often recommended.
Replacing Teeth after Tooth Extractions
Today’s patient has a few options for replacing teeth lost to dental injuries and disease. One of the best treatments for failing and damaged teeth are dental implants, which our prosthodontist can place.
Dental implants are the only prosthetic that replaces the root structures of teeth. These durable prosthetics can support crowns, bridges, and dentures. Dental implants make it possible to enjoy a natural looking aesthetic and optimal oral function.
If you have questions about your tooth replacement options, we invite you to schedule a dental implant consultation with our prosthodontist. Our team will perform a physical examination and review your health history to determine if this treatment option meets your needs.
Call Dakota Prosthodontics and Implant Center today to reserve an appointment.
