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A dentist's primary objective is to help patients keep their teeth healthy and intact for as long as possible. However, sometimes a tooth extraction may be the only option when the condition of a tooth makes it unsalvageable.
Questions about Tooth Extractions?
If you have been told that you will need a tooth extraction, don't worry. With modern anesthesia and sedation options, having a tooth extracted is rarely a painful or uncomfortable procedure.
At our practice, your oral health and comfort are important to us. We will help make the process as easy as possible. A tooth extraction doesn't mean the end to your smile; there are many tooth replacement options available and we would be happy to discuss those following your extraction.
When is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Having a tooth extracted is seldom preferable to other restorative efforts such as root canal therapy
Your dentist may recommend an extraction under an of the following situations:
- Dental trauma
- Irreversible pulpitis
- Aggressive tooth decay
- In preparation for dental implants or dentures
- Excess teeth (supernumerary teeth)
What are the Replacement Options for Missing Teeth?
The main goal of replacing a missing tooth is to prevent the remaining teeth from moving out of place, while can result in infection and additional tooth loss. Fortunately, you have many tooth replacement options following an extraction. The following are common methods used to replace missing teeth:
Dental implants. Whether you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants can be utilized to replace them. Due to to their stability, ability to maintain jawbone health, and esthetic benefits, dental implants are widely seen as the best tooth replacement option currently available to patients.
Dental bridges. Dental bridges can replace a single missing tooth or even several teeth in a row. Unlike partial dentures, bridges are anchored in place by two crowns on each side of the missing tooth. The crowns hold a pontic (artificial tooth) between them to replace the missing tooth.
Partial dentures. Partial dentures are a great option for patients who are missing several teeth and do not want to make a large investment toward dental implants. Partial dentures are available in fixed and removable varieties, giving patients some flexibility.
Each kind of dental restoration has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. In terms of aesthetics and long-term oral health, dental implants are the most popular choice. However, the cost of dental implants might be prohibitive for many people. Dental bridges — while less costly — are only a temporary solution, typically only lasting around 10 years. Partial dentures are another option, but since they rest on the gums, many patients complain about gum pressure and discomfort.
Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
If a wisdom tooth has partially erupted, or has become impacted, it may require surgical extraction. Although, there are several other reasons why a dentist may recommend a patient have their wisdom teeth removed. Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding if there isn't enough arch space when they emerge. There is also the question of helping the patient to brush and floss more easily; wisdom teeth can be more difficult to clean due to their location at the rear of the dental arch.
