Patients often believe that one of the main signals of needing a tooth extraction is ongoing discomfort. However, just because a tooth is uncomfortable doesn’t always mean extraction is the best option. Determining if you need a tooth extracted requires the care of a dental professional like Albion Family Dental.
A tooth extraction can be an excellent solution in a variety of different scenarios.
Why You May Need a Tooth Extracted
If you experience trauma to your tooth that causes it to become dislodged or infected, you may benefit from a tooth extraction in Albion. It’s best to visit your dentist as soon as possible to ensure other teeth are not affected in these situations.
There are other cases when removing a tooth can be the best solution, such as:
Overcrowded Teeth
When the teeth grow in, and there isn’t enough space to bite correctly, your dentist may perform a tooth extraction in Albion to create enough space to adjust your teeth.
Signs of overcrowded teeth include1:
- Overlapping teeth
- Twisted or crooked teeth
- Difficulty flossing
- Recessed chin
- Snoring or sleep apnea
Overcrowded teeth can affect the health of your bite and the structure of your jaw. Additionally, crowded teeth are more difficult to clean, so you may be more prone to cavities and infection.1
Impacted Teeth
Impaction occurs when the teeth can’t emerge through the gums. In addition, an impacted tooth may occur when it’s poorly positioned or in the wrong direction. Wisdom teeth often become impacted since they’re the last to erupt.
Symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth include:2
- Jaw pain
- Swelling in the jaw or gums
- Red, tender, bleeding gums
Wisdom teeth are often extracted because they overcrowd the other teeth in the mouth or become partially or fully impacted. They can be uncomfortable, damage the surrounding teeth, and are often more prone to periodontal disease and tooth decay.3
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is one of the biggest threats to your oral health.4 Periodontal disease typically begins as gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease that irritates the gums around the base of the teeth, causing redness and swelling.
As gum disease progresses, it becomes periodontitis. Signs of periodontal disease include:
- Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Pain while chewing
- Persistent bad breath
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Loose teeth
- Receding gum line
Thankfully, periodontal disease does not always lead to tooth extraction. Instead, your dentist may be able to reverse your periodontitis with deep cleaning of the affected teeth below the gums, medications, or corrective gum surgery from a periodontist.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay affecting permanent teeth is the most common health condition worldwide.5 Also known as cavities or caries, tooth decay creates holes in a tooth’s hard surface, allowing bacteria and infection to occur.
When cavities go untreated, they grow larger and affect the deeper layers of the teeth. Signs of tooth decay include:
- Toothaches
- Sensitivity to heat or cold
- Visible holes in the teeth
- Brown or black staining
- Pain when chewing or biting down
Not all tooth decay requires tooth extraction. However, only a dental professional can evaluate your tooth and determine whether saving or removing it is the best solution.
What to Do if You Think You Need a Tooth Extracted in Albion
When you’re experiencing symptoms like discomfort, sensitivity, swelling, persistent bad breath, or other signs of infection or decay, you may need a tooth extraction in Albion for relief.
A skilled dentist who prioritizes your care, like the professionals at Albion Family Dental, can determine whether you require extraction and ensure the process is gentle, comfortable, and positive.
Your oral health is essential to your overall health. Schedule a consultation with Albion Family Dental to enjoy our friendly environment and compassionate care today. 585-589-9044
Sources:
[1] https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/crooked-teeth
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wisdom-teeth/symptoms-causes/syc-20373808
[3] https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/wisdom-teeth/
[4] https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html
[5] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health