Tooth loss isn’t always expected, although it’s sometimes a necessity when patients neglect necessary dental treatment for long enough. Though tooth extraction is frequently necessary, Dr. Cain doesn’t typically recommend it unless the tooth can no longer serve its function, or poses a threat to your continued good oral health. Depending on the reason for the extraction, a tooth may also require a durable replacement, such as with a dental implant, or its removal may make way for orthodontic treatment to rearrange crowded teeth into more effective positions. While preserving your natural smile is often a focal point of excellent dental care, there are some unfortunate circumstances that may require a tooth extraction for the benefit of your oral health.
Severely Afflicted Teeth
Your permanent teeth are designed and arranged to effectively absorb the pressures of biting and chewing every day. If a tooth is weakened due to tooth decay or structural damage, then its ability to function will be severely limited. If a crack or fracture reaches a tooth’s root, which extends underneath the gums and into the jawbone, then the tooth typically can’t be saved and must be extracted. If an abscess (pocket of infection) develops at the end of a tooth’s root due to extreme tooth decay, then its presence can damage surrounding bone and the tooth may be too infected to save.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontics is the study of how teeth fit together (alignment), and the straightening of teeth that are crooked and might impede a bite’s balance. When teeth are too large or too crooked to facilitate orthodontic treatment, they are often extracted to make room for teeth that can more effectively distribute bite pressure.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are among the most commonly-extracted teeth, and are the most likely to lead to crowding and tooth impaction. Known as third molars, wisdom teeth are the last four teeth to erupt. Unfortunately, there often isn’t enough room on a patient’s dental ridges to accommodate them, and wisdom teeth can nudge against present molars, pushing them out of place and increasing the risk of dental damage and disease. Impacted wisdom teeth also tend to cause significant discomfort, and removing them may be necessary to restore good health, balance, and tranquility to your smile.
About Your Gary, IN Dentist:
As a native of northwest Indiana, Nicholas Cain, DDS, is dedicated to providing excellent cosmetic, preventive, and restorative dentistry to the community that raised him. To schedule your family’s next dental appointment, call Healthy Smiles today at 219-938-2637.