Permanent teeth are called “permanent” for a reason. They’re supposed to last our entire lives! Unfortunately, due to a variety of reasons, tooth loss, damage or decay may occur. Whether due to accident, disease or natural wear, losing a tooth is a significant life event that impacts the way residents of Pleasant Garden, NC, smile, eat and talk.
Sometimes, however, your dentist will extract a tooth. Wait, what? Isn’t it supposed to be the other way around? The truth is, there are several situations when a dentist may recommend pulling a tooth. Also known as a tooth extraction, this procedure can be necessary for a variety of reasons. Let’s cover them.
When Tooth Extractions Are Needed
The most common reason for tooth extractions? When a tooth is damaged beyond repair. A tooth extraction will also be recommended if any of the following situations apply:
- The tooth is exhibiting signs of severe infection
- The tooth has the potential for developing a severe infection
- There is too much natural decay to save the tooth
- Your mouth is crowded and there isn’t enough room for a tooth
- You have advanced gum disease
- You need another procedure that requires a tooth extraction (e.g. dental implant)
Regardless of the reason, there’s one thing you shouldn’t do, and that’s pull it yourself. Always visit a dentist! If you’re not convinced, maybe you should take a look at the process first.
How Tooth Extractions Work
Put away the rope and shut the door. Tooth extractions are a little more advanced these days, so you don’t need to resort to rudimentary methods of DIY tooth removal. (Plus, there’s a risk of creating additional damage in your mouth.) When you visit a cosmetic dentist in Pleasant Garden, NC, for a tooth extraction, you can have peace of mind knowing he has extensive training and experience pulling teeth and will give you the proper anesthetics to limit pain and remove the tooth as safely as possible.
A note about impacted teeth: If you have an impacted tooth (whether due to wisdom teeth coming in or another reason), it may require surgery. Either way, Dr. Walrond will give you advice for how to best handle the procedure and the healing period.
What Happens After a Tooth Extraction?
What happens after a tooth extraction? It depends on the reason for it. If you had a tooth pulled because of braces, you’ll simply move to the next treatment step. If you had to remove the tooth due to decay, wear or an accident, however, you’ll need to decide what to replace the tooth with. There are options for single teeth (dental implant), multiple teeth (bridge or multiple implants) and full arches of teeth (Teeth in a Day). By replacing your tooth, you’ll avoid many of the embarrassments and inconveniences that come with tooth loss and be able to eat, smile and talk with confidence.
If you’re interested in ways to improve your smile, contact us today for a no-obligation consultation.
