Tooth extraction is a procedure to remove one or more teeth from the mouth. Tooth extractions
are performed in cases where there is not enough healthy tooth structure to support a restoration (filling, crown, etc.). When possible, deciduous teeth (baby/primary teeth) extraction will be avoided. Deciduous teeth are primary or “baby” teeth that permanent teeth will eventually replace. There are various reasons why Dr. Ivis Hernandez might recommend a tooth extraction. Some of these reasons include
Tooth Decay
When tooth decay is left untreated, it can lead to an infection of the pulp chamber inside the tooth. An infected pulp requires treatment to save the tooth and maintain proper dental health. This type of reaction typically occurs after a deep cavity forms within the crown or root of the affected tooth. Dentists must clean out a cavity before the restoration of a healthy tooth.
Fractured Tooth
Sometimes a tooth can fracture either from an injury or exposure to extreme temperatures. Fractures outside the gum line will need treatment to prevent pain and infection. A fractured tooth may also lead to exposure of the pulp chamber if part of the tooth’s protective enamel is lost, increasing the risk for pulp exposure and irritation.
Excessive Tooth Eruption
In some cases, a baby tooth can begin to move in front of a permanent tooth before it is ready to erupt from the gum. Tooth eruption may also require the removal of the baby tooth so that the adult tooth has enough space to come into its proper position. An erupting tooth may also crowd a nearby tooth, causing it to move out of its proper alignment. Tooth extraction may be suggested to avoid the need for orthodontic treatment or other treatments that can be costly and time-consuming.
Impacted Tooth
An impacted tooth is a tooth that fails to erupt into the mouth in its usual period. There are three different types of impaction: mesioangular, distoangular, and transversal. Impacted teeth may need to be removed if they cause improper chewing or speaking, if there is not enough room for all adult teeth, or if they disrupt normal jaw or facial growth.
Misaligned Teeth
Malocclusion is the term used to describe teeth that are not aligned with one another. Even though your teeth may fit together, they may not be positioned in a way to allow for optimal chewing and speaking. A dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment to move impacted or misaligned teeth into the proper alignment.
Infected Tooth
A tooth infection can be caused by decay, fracture, or trauma. An infection may also result from other bacteria entering the mouth due to dental procedures or other medical conditions. Infections will need to be treated immediately to avoid the risk of complications. If an infected tooth is not treated, it can lead to severe illness and systemic problems.
Temporary Tooth Loss
Sometimes teeth may need to be removed due to injury or illness until the situation is resolved. For example, if you lose your front tooth due to an accident, you will probably want that tooth replaced as quickly as possible. Once the bone surrounding the tooth has healed, you can have a bridge or implant placed to replace your lost tooth.
Having teeth extracted can be a stressful experience. You might feel anxious about the pain and discomfort you will experience following your tooth removal, as well as the healing process and overall appearance of your mouth after your tooth is removed. However, there are times when tooth removal is necessary and unavoidable.
