When A Tooth Extraction Is Necessary
1. Severe Tooth Decay
Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth begin to attack the tooth and eat away at it. Decay often starts in the enamel, or outer layers, and creates a hole which is known as a cavity. This amount of decay can often be resolved with a filling, which prevents bacteria from entering further into the tooth. If a cavity is not filled in time, the bacteria will make its way into the dentin and then the pulp. The pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth that contains tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. Once tooth decay reaches this part of the tooth it will become very painful. Sometimes the tooth can be saved through a root canal, but if the decay is too severe, the tooth will need to be extracted.
2. Impacted Teeth
When a tooth is fully formed but does not emerge through the gums, it is considered impacted. Because the tooth is trapped beneath the gums, sometimes at odd angles, it can cause pain in the gums and affect the positioning of other teeth around it. Impacted teeth or partially erupted teeth can also be difficult to clean and are at a higher risk of developing tooth decay than other teeth. To avoid the impacted teeth pushing other teeth out of place, causing pain, or becoming decayed, a dentist may extract them. Wisdom tooth extraction is very common, as wisdom teeth are very likely to become impacted.
3. Periodontal Disease
Periodontitis, commonly referred to as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums that damages the soft tissue. This gum disease is often caused by a lack of oral hygiene that leads to a buildup of plaque and tartar on the gums. When periodontitis becomes severe, it can damage the bone that supports your teeth, leading to loose teeth. Once a tooth has lost all bone support and cannot be saved, it needs to be extracted.
4. Overcrowding
When the teeth are overcrowded, it causes them to push against and move one another. This can lead to teeth turning at awkward angles and otherwise being displaced. This not only negatively affects the aesthetics of your smile, but it also can lead to a misaligned bite and difficulty cleaning between teeth. A dentist may suggest tooth extraction to give the remaining teeth enough space in the mouth to properly fit.
5. Fractured Tooth
Although teeth are exceptionally hard, they are still made of bone and can become fractured. When a crack appears on a tooth it can sometimes cause the tooth to split or break. If a crack is mild, the tooth may be saved using a crown, bonding, or a root canal. If the crack has damaged the structure of the tooth including the nerves and the root of the tooth, it needs to be extracted. A severely cracked tooth that is not extracted can cause pain, but it can also become infected and lead to more serious problems. If you have a severely fractured, chipped, or broken tooth, this is considered a dental emergency and you should seek emergency dental services right away.
Tooth Extraction And Dental Services In NE Calgary
If you’re experiencing tooth, gum, or jaw pain, or if your teeth are overcrowded, tooth extraction may be the solution. If you’re suffering from sudden and/or intense pain, visit Marlborough Dental Centre for emergency services. If your pain is not sudden or is manageable, book a dental appointment as soon as possible. Even if tooth extraction may not be necessary, your pain should still be addressed and properly treated. If you are suffering tooth pain and ignore it, the problem can grow to the point where extraction is unavoidable.
The optimal way to avoid a tooth extraction is by consistently taking care of your dental health. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day and visit your Calgary dentist at least once a year for an annual check-up and cleaning. To schedule a dental exam with one of the knowledgeable dentists at Marlborough Dental Centre in NE Calgary, either call 1-403-248-2066 or fill out the contact form.
FAQ
Q: What do I do in the event of a dental emergency?
A: If you think you are currently experiencing a dental emergency, you should try to remain calm and immediately call your dentist. Upon calling, inform the staff of your emergency situation, and they will quickly get a dentist who can provide you with expert advice. If you are unable to get hold of your dentist, visit the emergency room.
Q: At what age is it most common to get your wisdom teeth removed?
A: The timing for the removal of wisdom teeth depends on the patient’s age, root formation, and tooth position. As for age, the younger you can have your wisdom teeth removed the better; younger people can recover from surgery faster and are at lower risk of infection. The most common ages to get wisdom teeth removed are between 16 to 22 years old.
Q: Will a local anaesthetic be provided during my tooth extraction?
A: Your dentist will inject a local anaesthetic into your gums surrounding the tooth that needs extracting so you do not have to feel any pain or discomfort. The numbness from the anaesthetic should wear off after a few hours following the procedure.
