A tooth extraction isn’t the only solution to a damaged tooth. Read this blog to learn when a tooth needs to be removed and what other solutions are available.
It’s easy to jump to the worst-case scenario when you’re experiencing severe dental pain. For many people, a dental extraction is the most feared dental procedure, but it shouldn’t be! Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure and dentists are trained to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Though you may believe a tooth extraction is the only effective solution, it’s possible the tooth may not need to be removed. To learn about when a tooth extraction is necessary, what to expect, and other treatment options continue reading this blog.
It’s impossible to know what treatment is best for your situation without meeting with a dentist. Severe dental pain should be addressed as soon as possible. Contact a dentist near you immediately.
Reasons for a Tooth Extraction
Dentists don’t recommend tooth extractions often. This is because dentists recognize the value of patients keeping their natural teeth.
Unfortunately, not all teeth can be saved. After thoroughly evaluating the tooth, the dentist may recommend an extraction for one or more of these reasons:
- Severe trauma that can’t be repaired
- Infection or disease that has infiltrated the dental pulp
- Impaction or overcrowding that affects the surrounding teeth, bite, or chewing ability
It’s impossible for a person to diagnose himself at home, but there are some common signs could mean an extraction is necessary. These include:
- Extreme tooth pain
- Pain that increases because of pressure or chewing
- Tightness or pain in the jaw
- Swollen gums around the tooth
- Bleeding around the tooth
If you have any of these symptoms, contact a dentist immediately.
What to Expect
For those who need a dental extraction, the dentist will do whatever he or she can to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. This includes utilizing local anesthesia and dental sedation.
There are two types of tooth extractions:
- Simple extraction: This procedure is typically performed when the tooth is visible. The dentist will simply loosen the tooth and lift it from its socket.
- Surgical extraction: If a tooth is fractured, impacted, or weak at the gum line, this type of extraction is necessary. The dentist will remove a small amount of gum and bone tissue from around the tooth, divide the tooth into sections, remove each part, and stitch the incision back together.
Thanks to advanced dental technology, most patients only experience slight pain and discomfort after the procedure. This can typically be managed with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications.
Bleeding and swelling are common for 24 hours after the procedure, but patients should rest for at least two days to give their body time to heal. The dentist will provide additional post-surgical instructions that should be followed closely.
Other Possible Treatment Options
If a dental extraction isn’t necessary, the dentist may recommend a dental crown or root canal therapy.
Dental Crown
Crowns are recommended for several dental problems, including:
- To protect a decaying tooth from breaking
- Holding together a cracked tooth
- Restore an already worn-down or broken tooth
- Support a tooth with a large filling
Root Canal Therapy
If the crown of the tooth isn’t beyond repair, the dentist may suggest having a root canal instead of a tooth extraction. This procedure allows the patient to maintain their natural tooth structure without having to experience the pain caused by infection.
Contact A Dentist Near You
If you have severe dental pain, bleeding, swelling, or any other problematic symptoms, schedule an initial consultation with a trusted dentist today.
To meet with our experienced, gentle dentist, Dr. Luminita Markham, call (530) 823-8771.
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