Extractions
There are a variety of reasons a dental extraction might be recommended by our dentist at Karen J Harris & Associates. A tooth that is damaged beyond repair, like a severely decayed tooth, will likely need to be extracted. A tooth that is causing pain or infection will need to be extracted. An impacted wisdom tooth is another reason a tooth might be extracted. Impacted wisdom teeth are wisdom teeth that are trapped beneath the gums or bone and are unable to fully erupt.
When Are Extractions Necessary?
Infection
If a cavity has become very large and the tooth is in danger of breaking, extraction may be necessary. If an abscess has formed, removing the tooth may be the best solution.
Affecting Other Teeth
An impacted tooth can cause damage to the surrounding teeth, and it may need to be removed if the damage becomes too much. Other teeth can get overcrowded and the growth can cause misalignment.
An impacted tooth may also cause issues with your jaw and joints. If the tooth is impacted, the jaw may not have enough room to fully grow, which can cause issues with your jaw joint. Some impacted teeth may need to be extracted if they are causing more problems for the surrounding teeth, jaw, and joints.
Risk of Trauma
Traumatic dental injuries can include broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and cracked teeth. A knocked-out tooth can’t always be saved and needs to be replanted as soon as possible. A tooth that is broken or cracked can be fixed with restorative treatment, like dental crowns or dental veneers.
The Benefits of Extractions
Extractions are often recommended if you need to remove a tooth that is severely damaged or infected. Some extractions are also advised if you are getting orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth or bites.
Extractions are safe and effective, and allow you to restore your smile’s health. Teeth that are extracted can be replaced with dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures, allowing you to smile with confidence.
Get in touch with Karen J Harris & Associates at 2000 Locust, St. Louis, MO 63103, or call (314) 231-4893 to learn more about the perks of dental extraction.
