How to Tell If a Tooth Needs to Be Extracted

Sometimes, the signs that a tooth needs to be removed are obvious, like severe pain, infection, or significant damage. However, other times the symptoms are more subtle. Understanding these indicators can help you seek timely treatment so you can preserve your oral health and stop the problem before it gets worse and more costly to remedy.

6 Common Signs a Tooth May Need to Be Extracted

1. Persistent Pain: If you experience ongoing pain for several days that won’t go away even with over-the-counter medication, this is a tell-tale sign something is wrong. Pain often indicates deep decay or an infection that has reached the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels), in which case a tooth extraction may be needed to relieve discomfort and prevent the spread of infection.
2. Swelling and Gum Disease: Noticeable swelling around a tooth, or gums that bleed easily, may indicate gum disease. When gum disease advances to a severe state (periodontitis), it can damage the surrounding bone, compromising the tooth’s stability. In cases where periodontal treatment is ineffective, extraction may be the best course of action.
3. Severe Tooth Decay: When decay is so extensive that it affects the tooth’s root or the surrounding bone, it often means that a filling or crown is not enough to save it. If a tooth is too damaged to support restoration, it must be removed to prevent further complications.
4. Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth are prone to impaction due to lack of space in the mouth, leading to discomfort, and infection. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth fully, impacted wisdom teeth could be the culprit. At Innovative Oral Surgery, we specialize in removing problematic wisdom teeth to alleviate pain and safeguard your smile.
5. Trauma or Broken Teeth: A tooth that is fractured below the gumline or severely broken may need to be removed, especially if it cannot be restored with a crown or filling. If you’ve experienced a dental injury, prompt evaluation is essential to determine if the tooth can be saved or if extraction is necessary.
6. Loose Teeth: Teeth that become loose due to bone loss or advanced gum disease often require extraction, especially if they cause discomfort or affect your bite. A loose tooth can also signal underlying health issues, so it’s best to consult with an oral surgeon for a thorough examination.

How an Oral Surgeon Can Help

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t delay in reaching out to a professional. At Innovative Oral Surgery, our board-certified oral surgeons will assess your situation using advanced diagnostic tools to determine the best course of action.

From there, we provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Based on your unique situation, we may move forward with a tooth extraction followed by options such as dental implants to replace the missing tooth.

Dental implants are a popular solution for many reasons. Not only do they restore your smile, but they also support and stimulate the surrounding bone, preventing deterioration. This strong foundation mimics natural tooth roots, preserving facial structure and enabling you to eat and speak with confidence.

Experiencing Pain or Signs of Tooth Decay? Get Your Tooth Checked Out ASAP!

Remember, timely intervention is key to preventing more serious complications. At Innovative Oral Surgery, our team is here to support you every step of the way, prioritizing your comfort and helping you make informed decisions about your oral health. If you’re unsure about your symptoms, contact us to schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns.