Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction

A general dentist will try and save natural teeth when possible. However, in certain circumstances, tooth extraction is either the only option or the most appropriate one for preserving oral health. The following are some key examples of situations where a dentist might recommend a tooth extraction.

Reasons for tooth extraction

Sometimes, a tooth is too damaged or decayed to save, or it is coming in or has come in in such a way that it jeopardizes surrounding teeth or smile alignment.

Overcrowding

Overcrowding in the mouth can make it difficult for the smile to come into a healthy alignment. Sometimes, a dentist will suggest removing a tooth to create more room in the mouth for the other teeth to line up evenly with each other. This type of extraction is often performed as part of a patient's orthodontic plan, typically when they are a child or teenager. Well-aligned teeth can also help to prevent dental trauma and tooth decay, two other common reasons for tooth extraction.

Dental trauma

Sometimes, a tooth sustains enough damage that a dental crown or other restoration is not enough. Tooth extraction may be the only option if the tooth root structure and nerves are damaged. For example, if a tooth is cracked and the crack extends below the gum line, a dentist will likely recommend pulling the tooth and discussing tooth replacement options with the patient.

Impacted teeth

This condition often happens with wisdom teeth and can be aggravated by overcrowding. Wisdom teeth are up to four molars that typically erupt between ages 17 and 25. Often, there is not enough room in the mouth or jaw for these teeth. Instead, these wisdom teeth become impacted and do not erupt properly. This condition can lead to several oral health problems, including gum and jaw pain, headaches, infection, and bad breath.

Severe decay

What starts as a small cavity can lead to severe tooth decay that threatens the surrounding healthy teeth and tissue. This cause is perhaps the most preventable, but tooth decay can get so bad that the tooth cannot be saved and has to be pulled. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups may help patients prevent tooth decay from reaching this point. Treating a cavity while it is still in the enamel layer is also recommended.

Advanced periodontal disease

In the advanced stages of gum disease, the gums recede, teeth and gums become infected, and bone loss occurs. At this point, teeth become loose and may fall out. When this happens, a dentist will likely recommend pulling these teeth to help stop the spread of the infection to other parts of the mouth or body. The good news is that, like with tooth decay, regular home dental care and dental visits usually prevent gum disease from advancing this far.