A tooth extraction is a common and easy procedure that one should not be afraid of and should not be ignored once diagnosed. When done by a skilled and experienced dentist, recovery is relatively easy and does not require significant downtime, and actual recovery time varies depending on the nature of the extraction.
Dentists reserve this procedure for teeth that pose a threat to a patient’s daily life or oral health and do not respond to other treatments. You should also note that when you remove a tooth with this treatment, you should replace the missing tooth with help from your dentist.
You might wonder about the scenarios that necessitate this type of dental intervention. Read on to learn why a dentist may recommend the extraction of a tooth and why you should discuss further restorative options with your dentist after this treatment.
When Do I Need a Tooth Extraction Procedure?
Your dentist prioritizes the preservation of your natural smile. But in some instances, a tooth cannot be treated with more conservative approaches. Then, the dentist must remove the tooth to protect the rest of your smile. Circumstances that may require a tooth extraction include:
- Impacted wisdom teeth: Many people have a third set of molars that can begin to grow after puberty. However, the jaw might not be able to accommodate these extra teeth. The teeth can get stuck, leaving a patient in pain and in danger of infection. The dentist will need to surgically extract impacted wisdom teeth.
- Overcrowded teeth: Crowded teeth can make completing your oral hygiene routine difficult. Extracting a tooth in this case can improve your dental alignment and allow you to remove harmful plaque effectively to keep your smile clean and healthy.
- Severe tooth damage: If advanced decay penetrates deep into a tooth, your dentist might not be able to treat it. The dentist will need to extract the tooth to prevent decay from spreading or putting you at risk of an infection.
Why Should I Prioritize Prompt Tooth Replacement?
A tooth extraction can be a crucial treatment to prevent serious oral health complications. However, missing teeth can also disrupt your smile in multiple ways. With the loss of a tooth, you might struggle with oral functions, see disruption in the appearance of your smile or face shape, and experience a greater risk of other dental problems.
Your dentist can help you replace an extracted tooth swiftly with a dental implant. This highly beneficial tooth replacement solution can restore the structure, aesthetics, and health of your smile to avoid complications after a tooth extraction. Implants offer comprehensive dental restoration so that you can experience long-term benefits, unlike removable treatments like dentures.
Book a dental consultation today to determine a treatment plan that prioritizes your long-term oral health. Find general, cosmetic, and restorative dental solutions, tooth replacements, and more with Dr. Victor Gittleman in Morristown, NJ.