Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?

Movie scenarios tend to frame tooth extractions as a dreadful, excruciating process, but in reality, tooth extractions are a safe, and sometimes necessary procedure when performed by the right dentists. Most tooth extractions are performed without complications and are typically performed when the tooth is interfering with normal functions, such as eating, speaking, and sleep. Tooth extractions, while seen as the most undesirable outcome, have the ability to immediately relieve pain, help realign teeth, and make room for restorations that can greatly impact a person’s smile.

Reasons for Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions are typically performed due to reasons that have a great impact on a person’s health, and require the removal of one or multiple teeth to give that person the healing and alignment they need for better oral health. Some of those reasons include:

• Tooth Decay – Tooth decay is the most common reason for tooth extraction, because when the bacteria that exists around the tooth begins the infect the pulp, the nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive and healthy will begin to form abscesses. Abscesses are painful pockets of pus that radiate pain from the ear to the neck, generally leaving people with the inability to chew and speak properly. Another cause for abscesses is periodontal disease. Periodontal disease occurs along the gums and happens when bacteria build up in between the gums and teeth. Periodontal disease can cause tooth decay, especially when the bacteria present in the gums transfers along with the enamel of the tooth and begins wearing that enamel down.
• Bone Loss – Periodontal disease also can cause bone loss. Bone loss, specifically where the teeth are concerned, typically occurs due to poor hygiene, where factors such as smoking, oral inflammation, and systemic diseases can increase the chance of the tooth becoming loose. These loose teeth will not provide enough support for eating and speaking, and can often be painful due to their compromised position.
• Tooth Root Fracture – Tooth fractures occur during external trauma caused by accidents or assaults. These fractures can occur along the root of the tooth, even if the external cracks of the tooth cannot be seen by the naked eye. Even foods such as popcorn, poorly cooked rice, and nuts can cause fractures in the tooth, and when the fractures cannot be accessed externally, the tooth will most likely need to be removed.
• Impacted Wisdom Teeth – Another one of the most common reasons for a tooth extraction doesn’t come from a lack of oral hygiene, but rather how the teeth grow and adjust over time. Wisdom teeth, when they grow in incorrectly, can shift the permanent teeth into unhealthy positions. When the wisdom teeth begin to disrupt the alignment of the adjacent teeth, they can cause pain and cause the gum line to become more prone to infections. Wisdom teeth, because of their position in the back of the mouth, can be difficult to clean and can lead to gum disease as a result.

If you’re experiencing tooth problems and are unsure if you need a tooth extraction, then don’t hesitate to call Dr. Amanda and Zakary Kronquist, located at Sunset Dental Group in Santa Ana, CA to schedule an appointment today.