When Does a Tooth Need to Be Extracted?

While we typically do whatever we can to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, in some cases, extraction is actually the best option for your health and comfort. Our Elgin dentists offer a range of dental care procedures designed to meet your specific needs. For patients experiencing pain or who have severe damage or decay, root canal therapy is typically the first choice, as it allows for the removal of the infection while still preserving as much tooth structure as possible. However, in cases where the decay is too severe, tooth extraction may be the ideal course of action. You can rest assured that you will be treated with the highest-quality of care, and we can help you determine the optimal tooth replacement option to fill any gap(s) in your smile.

Patients can be in need of a tooth extraction for many reasons, including:

• Advanced periodontal disease
• Severe damage or wear
• Severe decay or infection
• Overcrowding
• Preparation for braces
• Preparation for dentures or other restorations
• Impaction (when teeth do not properly erupt from beneath the gums)

Tooth removal is typically a quick process and can usually be completed in one visit. Downtime and aftercare will vary on a case-by-case basis. For more simple extractions, surgery is not typically required, and patients are able to resume normal activities immediately. However, in cases where a tooth is impacted or severely damaged, oral surgery may be necessary, in which case the recovery period may be somewhat longer.

In cases where a tooth is removed due to overcrowding or impaction, replacement may not be necessary. However, in other cases, there are a variety of options available for patients to fill the recently-created gap(s) in their smile. Potential restorative options include dental implants, implant dentures, and dental bridges. Our team can go over these options with you in greater detail during your consultation.

While some of the common causes behind tooth extractions are unavoidable, it is important to note that good oral hygiene can help aid in preventing tooth degradation and greatly reduce your risk of needing an extraction over the long-term. Daily brushing and flossing can help protect your teeth and gums, and scheduling regular check-ups gives your dentist a chance to continuously monitor the health of your mouth.

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If you want to learn more about tooth extraction or believe you are in need of dental care, contact us today!