Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket. Doctors recommend extractions if the tooth cannot be saved by other dental procedures such as fillings and implants. Marvin Taylor DDS and the team at Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center perform extractions and other dental procedures. Here are the reasons why your doctor may recommend a tooth extraction.

Chronic gum disease of periodontitis

Gum disease or periodontitis is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It can lead to tooth loss, pain in the gums, bad breath, and chewing difficulties. If you have any signs of gum disease, it is best to see your dentist before more serious problems arise. After assessing your teeth, the doctor may recommend extraction and then treat the area affected by chronic gum disease. Subsequently, the specialist may recommend other dental procedures such as implants and dentures after full recovery.

Decay

Tooth decay occurs when plaque form on your teeth and failure to brush your teeth can lead to the growth of bacteria. Over time, bacteria produce acids that dissolve the tooth enamel leading to decay. Subject to the severity of the infection, your doctor may use root canal treatment or recommend an extraction. It helps to stop further infection, which can spread to your gums. Further, an infection of the pulp can lead to an absence, and in such a case, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or surgery. However, if the infection cannot be treated, there is a need for extraction as soon as possible.

Excess teeth

Overcrowding of teeth is a condition affecting some individuals and can be because of various reasons. For example, genetics is the leading cause where the teeth are not proportional to the size of the jaw. It can lead to a loss of confidence in most people and your doctor may recommend extracting some teeth to reduce the overcrowding. Also, a doctor may recommend this procedure when performing an orthodontic procedure, and there is little room for your teeth to realign.

If the wisdom tooth did not erupt

Sometimes, the wisdom tooth may fail to erupt and may remain buried in the gums for a long time. It can be a cause of distress and most people may experience some discomfort. After an assessment, the dentist may recommend an extraction to prevent the impacted tooth from affecting other teeth. Also, extraction may help ease the discomfort caused by the impacted tooth.

Teeth fracture

If you have been involved in an accident such as a car crash or a fall and break your teeth, your doctor may take the necessary steps to preserve your teeth. However, if the fracture is severe, an extraction may be inevitable.

It is important to note that extraction is the ultimate solution to a damaged tooth. Even though most people worry about their smile after an extraction, there are plenty of options for dental treatments. For example, your doctor may recommend dentures, bridges, implants, and more to help preserve the tooth. Contact the specialists at Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center to have your teeth examined or for extraction.