The general goal of professional dentistry is to help you protect the health and integrity of your natural smile for life. That includes preserving your natural permanent teeth, which do not grow back if lost. However, in some cases, restorative dentistry may not be enough to save a tooth that is severely damaged, internally infected, or unable to perform its duties properly. To prevent the compromised tooth from causing increasingly more dental problems, your dentist may recommend extracting the tooth and replacing it with a lifelike prosthesis.
Why does my tooth need to be extracted?
Because your natural teeth do not grow back after being lost, tooth extraction is typically a last-resort option when all other restorative options fail. The most common reasons for tooth extraction include:
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Fractured teeth roots
- Extensive internal tooth infection
- Teeth that have lost support due to severe gum disease
- And more
Should I extract my wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, commonly lead to dental discomfort and complications because they often become impacted by the second set of molars. As they continue to try and erupt, wisdom teeth can push against your other teeth, leading to severe tooth pain and more. If your wisdom teeth cause problems, or if your dentist suspects that they might, then you may need to have them extracted as soon as possible.
How should I replace an extracted tooth?
With the exception of impacted wisdom teeth, tooth extraction is generally only one part of restoring your smile. The finale includes replacing the tooth with a lifelike prosthesis (i.e., dental bridge or implant-supported crown). Replacing the tooth will help ensure that your bite retains its proper balance and its full ability to function.
Learn if Tooth Extraction Is Necessary
If your tooth is beyond saving, then extracting it may be the best way to repair and preserve the rest of your smile. To learn more, schedule your appointment by calling Keelan Dental in Butler, PA, today at (724) 285-4153. Our Smile Certified experts happily serve patients from Butler, Cranberry Township, Mars, Pittsburgh, Butler County, and all surrounding communities.