Tooth loss is a common issue; in fact, millions and millions of adults in the U.S. are missing at least one of their natural teeth. Under ideal circumstances, you would be able to keep all of your teeth for a lifetime, but as experience shows, that is not possible for everyone. If your dentist recommends that you get one or more teeth extracted, you can be confident that they have your best interests at heart. Why might they recommend tooth removal? This blog post explains some of the most common reasons.
Advanced Gum Disease
You may require a tooth extraction if you develop advanced gum disease, also called periodontitis. This serious infection weakens the supporting structures around your teeth. Your gums and the bone beneath them gradually deteriorate, causing your teeth to become loose. If the condition progresses, keeping the affected teeth is no longer possible. Removing them can prevent further bone loss and allow your mouth to return to a healthier state, thereby reducing the risk of continued infection and discomfort.
Severe Damage or Decay
When a tooth suffers severe damage or decay, perhaps due to an accident or oral hygiene mistakes, your dentist will attempt to preserve it if at all possible. However, there are cases where fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy cannot restore a tooth, so tooth removal becomes necessary.
Infection Control
A tooth that becomes infected poses a threat to both your oral and overall health. If bacteria reach the pulp inside the tooth and antibiotics or root canal therapy cannot resolve the infection, extraction may be the safest option. Removing the tooth helps stop the spread of bacteria to surrounding teeth, bone, and even other parts of your body. An extraction may allow you to avoid serious complications, such as abscesses or systemic illness.
Making Way for Tooth Replacement
Sometimes a tooth must be removed to prepare your mouth for a new prosthetic. This is common before dental implants or full dentures are placed. Extracting weak or problematic teeth can help to create an environment where a new denture will be able to function optimally.
Trust Your Dentist’s Advice
Dentists do not lightly recommend tooth extractions. In fact, they want you to keep your teeth, so removing them is usually regarded as a last resort. Therefore, if your dentist does decide that an extraction is necessary, you can be confident that complying with their recommendation can open the way for improved oral health in the future.
Meet the Practice
At Vero Beach Dental Implants, our highly skilled team is ready to assist patients who require tooth extractions. We strive to provide comfortable and efficient service in a welcoming environment. We also offer state-of-the-art tooth replacement in the form of dental implants. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact our office at 772-205-6003.