When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Dentists always recommend treatments for optimal dental health and function. However, they may recommend extracting a tooth in certain cases. Continue reading to learn when a tooth extraction at a dentist’s office near you is necessary.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction
The dentist in Fort Myers may recommend removing a tooth from its socket for various reasons. These include:
- Severe decay leading to irreparable dental damage
When a tooth is decayed, it develops small holes known as cavities. The cavities may penetrate the tooth’s center, creating access for bacteria. As a result, the tissues inside the tooth will become infected. The infection spreads with time, damaging the nerves and blood vessels. It also weakens the tooth structure.
The dentist will evaluate the tooth, jawbone, and gums to determine if the tooth can be saved. However, this will not be possible if the tooth and supporting tissues are severely damaged. The dentist will extract the tooth instead.
- To correct tooth impaction
When a tooth is erupting, it may be blocked from reaching above the gums. As a result, it will cause severe toothache and can lead to an infection. Such a tooth is known as an impacted tooth. The problem usually affects the third molar or wisdom teeth. Your dentist will extract the impacted tooth to treat or prevent an infection.
- A solution to gum disease
Gum or periodontal disease is an infection that affects the gums. When it develops, it affects the alveolar bone, periodontal ligaments, and surrounding tissues. As a result, the teeth become loose and may start shifting. The dentist will provide periodontal treatment to reduce oral bacteria and stop infection. In addition, they will extract the tooth to restore the health of its supporting structures.
- As part of orthodontic treatment
If you have a small jaw that does not fit all your teeth, they will become overcrowded or misaligned. When this happens, your orthodontist will recommend extracting a tooth or two. It creates room for the remaining teeth to move and realign properly.
- After dental trauma
Accidents that affect your teeth can lead to the need for an extraction. If your teeth are damaged, the dentist will consider options to save them. They may consider treating the teeth with dental bridges, veneers, crowns, or bonding. However, this may not be possible if the tooth and supporting tissues are severely damaged. The emergency dentist near you will extract it.
The Complete Procedure of Tooth Extraction
The tooth extraction procedure may involve a simple or surgical extraction. The dentist will evaluate the tooth through x-rays and scans to determine the best extraction procedure. They will also consider your oral and overall health.
A simple tooth extraction is performed if the tooth has straight roots. It must also have enough solid structure above the gums to allow the dentist to grasp and manipulate it. A surgical extraction is usually carried out if the tooth is impacted or has no intact structure. The dentist will perform surgery to allow tooth removal.
The dentist in Fort Myers will begin a simple tooth extraction by administering an anesthetic and sedative. These help the patient relax during the extraction and prevent pain. Next, they will release periodontal ligament fibers for easier extraction.
They will then loosen and elevate the tooth and use forceps to grasp and deliver it from the mouth. Finally, the dentist will apply pressure to the socket to minimize bleeding. They will then give you instructions to promote fast and uncomplicated recovery.
A surgical tooth extraction procedure has a few different steps. First, the dentist will administer appropriate anesthesia and sedative. They will then incise and elevate the gum flap to expose the tooth. Next, they will release the periodontal ligament fibers to allow the extraction.
They will then place a gauze safety net in your mouth to prevent inhaling or swallowing tooth pieces. Next, the dentist will remove the bone around the tooth and section the tooth into easily removable pieces. After, they will extract the portions and suture the gums. Finally, the dentist will give you appropriate post-surgical instructions.
Are you looking for a dentist’s office near you for tooth extraction? Then schedule an appointment with our dental team at Freedom Dental Fort Myers. Dr. Joseph Vanderbosch and the team perform simple and surgical tooth extractions.