Health Issues That Might Require an Extraction

Below are some of the instances in which tooth extraction is recommended:

• Tooth Decay

When tooth decay reaches the pulp of the tooth, the typical treatment is a root canal procedure. However, if the infection is severe, an extraction may be required to prevent the infection from spreading to the neighboring teeth.

• Gum Disease or Periodontitis

When plaque builds up on a tooth and hardens to form tartar, there can be irritation and inflammation of the gum, known as gingivitis. If not treated early, it can progress to a stage where the underlying soft tissues and even the bone can get affected. Extraction of the tooth might be the only way to prevent further complications.

• Impacted Tooth

When a tooth fails to erupt, either due to insufficient space, or growth in the wrong direction, it is called an impacted tooth. Although this is more common for wisdom teeth, any tooth can be impacted. 

Impacted teeth can lead to infections and swollen or tender gums. There can be pain and swelling around the jaw along with difficulty opening the mouth. If the tooth does not respond to eruption aids, extraction may be necessary.

• Crowded Teeth

If there is overcrowding of teeth due to insufficient space, one or two of the problematic teeth will have to be removed. This would make space for the remaining teeth to be better aligned. Straightening would happen without the need for braces.

• Trauma to Teeth

Sometimes, an accident can damage a tooth badly and this might necessitate an extraction. The physical injury to the tooth could be caused by contact sports, a motor vehicle accident, or a fall. If the damage is severe, the tooth is at higher risk for infection.