Tooth extractions are often a last resort when a tooth is too damaged to be saved, commonly due to deep decay, impacted wisdom teeth, or to prepare for orthodontics.
Tooth extractions, or the removal of one or more teeth, are usually used as a last resort in dentistry, as keeping the natural tooth in the mouth is ideal. There are many reasons why single or multiple extractions may be performed, including pervasive tooth decay, the impaction of wisdom teeth, or the need to create space for orthodontic devices.
The most significant short-term benefit associated with tooth extraction is the elimination of pain. If a tooth is severely decayed or an infection is present, removing the affected tooth almost immediately alleviates discomfort. However, it should be noted that further procedures are necessary to replace the extracted tooth. Leaving a gap is not a viable option as the other teeth tend to twist out of alignment to fill the space.
Why Might I Need to Have a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extractions are incredibly common procedures. It should be reiterated that an extraction is used as a procedure of last resort, when nothing more can be done to save the tooth.
Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction
- Deep decay: This is the most common reason for tooth extraction, accounting for about two-thirds of all extraction procedures. When decay affects the tooth’s surface and the pulp, root canal procedures are not viable unless the tooth’s overall structure is stable.
- Extra teeth: Often baby teeth that do not shed, which take up space and cause other teeth to twist out of place. Extraction provides space for proper alignment.
- Periodontal disease: Severe erosion of the gums and underlying bone due to advanced periodontal disease may require extraction when the tooth can no longer be securely held in place.
- Before braces: Traditional braces require enough space for teeth to move into proper alignment. Extraction may be needed if space cannot be created naturally.
- Fractured teeth: In cases where a tooth is fractured beyond repair, extraction is necessary. Often, a prosthetic replacement will be used after the extraction.
How is the Extraction Procedure Performed?
Generally, tooth extraction can be simple in nature or involve more complex surgical processes. Simple extractions are performed on fully emerged teeth after applying local anesthetic to the treatment site. Instruments are used to elevate the tooth and then sever the periodontal ligament. The tooth is then carefully removed with dental forceps.
Surgical extractions are performed on teeth that are either invisible or inaccessible, such as unsurfaced wisdom teeth. An incision is usually made in the gum tissue, and a drill is used to precisely remove some of the adjacent bone tissue. Sometimes, the tooth has to be split into several pieces to be completely removed.
For any questions or concerns about tooth extraction, please contact your oral health care provider.