Whether you suffer from dentophobia (fear of the dentist) or if you are the type of person that can fall asleep during a dental exam, you probably felt a bit uneasy hearing that your tooth will need to be removed. Extracting a natural tooth can feel like big step, and isn’t a procedure that dentists suggest lightly. The seasoned dental professionals at Innovative Oral and Implant Surgery in Bucks County, PA, will always explore other procedure options that could save your natural tooth, but sometimes, the damage can be too much, making removal the only option. Keep in mind that this decision is usually based on what is the healthiest option for you, and what will provide you with the best end result. But how do you know when your tooth is too damaged to be saved?
When your infection has spread too far
If you have a tooth infection that has spread into the tooth’s pulp, the inner part that contains the nerves and blood supply, the pain is probably so severe that removing it sounds like a relief. Still, you may be wondering if there are other options. Typically, dentists will attempt to cure an infection by prescribing a round of antibiotics and performing a root canal. However, there are times when the infection is so severe, and has spread so deep, that these procedures wouldn’t be sufficient enough to remove the infection.
Tending to an abscessed tooth should take immediate priority. Not only will it cause severe pain, but the infection can spread to other parts of your body, causing further, sometimes deadly health complications. If you feel the pain moving into your jaw or neck, seek immediate medical treatment.
When you’ve suffered severe trauma or injury
Sport injuries, car accidents, and other trauma could cause irreparable damage to your tooth. Thankfully, there are many surgical options to take care of any health or cosmetic needs regarding your dental damage.
When there’s no more room in your mouth
Many people will experience the pain of a wisdom tooth or two (or four) trying to push their way through into a crowded jaw. Unremoved wisdom teeth can cause other teeth to shift, and can lead to headaches, jaw pain and even infection. Some patients may also need to remove a tooth as part of their orthodontic plan. Removing one tooth opens enough space for the rest of the teeth to sit a little straighter.
Whatever the cause for your tooth extraction, at Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery, we’re used to the questions, concerns and anxieties that our patients have before and after oral surgery. Removing a tooth is a big step, and our goal is to ensure you feel informed and comfortable throughout the whole process of your surgery—from your first consultation to post-surgery care. If your tooth is beyond saving, and you’re looking for a relief, call our team of experts today to schedule your appointment.
Additional resources:
- Web MD, Repairing a Chipped or Broken Tooth, https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/repairing-a-chipped-or-broken-tooth#1
- com, When Surgical Extraction of Teeth Is Necessary, https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/procedures/tooth-removal/when-surgical-extraction-of-teeth-is-necessary-0215