Tooth extraction is typically considered a last resort by dentists. While Dr. Anu Mohan views preserving natural teeth in her patients as her number one goal, this may not always be possible. Dentists like Dr. Mohan and the team at I-Rise Dental Boutique may have to extract a patient’s tooth in certain situations. Here are some of the situations where tooth extraction may be the only viable option to address dental issues effectively:
- Severe Tooth Decay: When tooth decay has advanced to an extent where the tooth structure is extensively damaged and cannot be restored with fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy, extraction may be necessary. In such cases, leaving the decayed tooth untreated can lead to pain, infection, and further complications.
- Advanced Periodontal Disease: Periodontal disease, characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissues, can cause irreversible damage to the supporting structures of the teeth. In advanced stages, tooth mobility and loss of attachment may necessitate extraction to prevent the spread of infection and preserve overall oral health.
For many of her patients with such gum disease, Dr. Mohan would suggest laser regenerative therapy, as this has been seen to significantly increase attachment, reduce mobility, and save the patient’s tooth/teeth. - Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often emerge improperly aligned or impacted due to insufficient space in the jaw. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, and even cyst formation. In such cases, extraction may be recommended to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
- Orthodontic Treatment: In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary as part of orthodontic treatment to correct overcrowding or alignment issues. Removing one or more teeth creates space for proper alignment of the remaining teeth and facilitates the desired outcome of orthodontic therapy.
- Trauma or Injury: Teeth that are severely fractured, broken, or traumatized beyond repair may require extraction. Traumatic injuries resulting from accidents or sports-related incidents can compromise the tooth’s structural integrity, making extraction the most appropriate course of action.
- Failed Root Canal Therapy: Despite efforts to save a tooth with root canal therapy, there are instances where the treatment may fail to resolve infection or adequately restore function. In such cases, extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection and preserve overall oral health.
- Supernumerary Teeth: Extra teeth, known as supernumerary teeth, may develop in addition to the normal complement of teeth. Extraction may be recommended when these extra teeth cause crowding, impede proper alignment, or lead to other dental issues.
In any of these situations, the decision to extract a tooth is made after careful evaluation by a dentist or oral surgeon, weighing the potential benefits and risks of the procedure. If you are a resident of Solana Beach, CA, seeking information on dental extractions, you can contact our team at I-Rise Dental Boutique in Del Mar, CA, by calling (858) 465-8717.