5 Signs You Need A Tooth Extraction

woman in pain may need a tooth extractionHave you been having problems with your teeth? Do you think you might need a tooth extraction? While the thought of having a tooth removed/extracted can send chills in anyone’s spine, this is sometimes the only best option.

 

A dental extraction may be the only viable option to help prevent larger problems from occurring in the future. Below are some of the top signs that show its time for tooth extraction.

 

1. Extensive Tooth Decay
Poor oral hygiene, plague, and a bad diet are some of the leading causes of tooth decay. Left unchecked, tooth decay can cause extensive damage to the structure of the tooth leading to damaged, broken, chipped, or even cracked teeth.

Extensive tooth decay will not only cause cavities but could also affect adjacent teeth as well. Your dentist will check to determine the level of damage and if the tooth can be saved. Extensive tooth decay, however, calls for extraction.

 

2. Infection
Infections mostly occur if one or more of your teeth have decayed to the pulp. A decayed pulp is more vulnerable to an infection, which can cause extensive damage to neighboring teeth and gums. Such infection will require one or more (affected) teeth to be removed to prevent farther damage. The dentist may also recommend tooth extraction to prevent infection, especially if the tooth is severely decayed.

 

3. Gum Disease
Severe periodontal disease can affect the gums, teeth, and surrounding structures and tissues, as well as the alveolar bone. While periodontal disease can be contained in its early stages, an advanced stage of the same can call for several teeth to be removed. This is the only viable option to prevent the disease from progressing, among other preventative measures.

 

4. Misplaced Teeth
There are times when one’s teeth may overcrowd in one place (overcrowding) hence no space for all to fit well. Some people may also have a misplaced tooth (impaction) whereby the tooth grows in the wrong way or shifts from its place. Such leads to an uneven bite or malocclusion – this may make it hard for one to chew food properly or impact his/her smile. The only way to deal with misplaced teeth is by having them extracted.

 

5. Severe Damage and Toothache
Damage to the dental formulae, either from a car accident or a severe injury may require one to have his/her tooth/teeth extracted. If you have been experiencing sharp tooth and jaw pain after an accident, with the pain getting worse when chewing anything, consider booking an appointment with your dentist immediately. The dentist will rule out other causes before settling for extraction.

 

Proper oral hygiene can help avoid the need to have a tooth removed. Make it a habit of seeing your dentist regularly to lower the risk of severe tooth decay and gum disease as well. The dentist will also advise you on the best ways to care for your teeth.