When Might You Need A Tooth Extracted?

Dr. Ed Trizzino knows it’s always best to save your natural teeth through methods like composite fillings, porcelain crowns, and root canal therapy. In certain situations, however, a tooth extraction is your best option. 

Below, he explains eight scenarios where an extraction could be the best path forward, and most importantly, how the Smiles of Atlanta team can replace your missing tooth.

1. You have severe tooth decay

If you have a cavity, Dr. Trizzino doesn’t jump to extraction right away. His first treatment option is typically a filling. He removes the decayed tooth material and fills the cavity with a composite material — hence the name “filling.”

If the decay is too much for a simple filling to treat, you might need a root canal procedure or crown. When a cavity extends deep into your tooth and damages the root or pulp beyond repair, your tooth can no longer be restored with a filling or crown. 

This type of severe decay is most common among smokers and those who have underlying health conditions, such as diabetes. Extraction prevents further infection and eliminates the pain of your badly decayed tooth.

2. You have severe gum disease

Gum disease doesn’t just cause problems with your gums. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can weaken the support structures around your teeth, including your gums, ligaments, and even your jawbone. 

If gum disease severely loosens a tooth, it may need to be removed.

3. You have severe alignment or crowding issues

In cases of overcrowded teeth, particularly before starting orthodontic treatment like braces, Dr. Trizzino might recommend an extraction. Thanks to ever-advancing orthodontic technology, however, this option is not as common as it used to be.

4. You have impacted wisdom teeth

Impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth that don’t erupt due to limited space, can press against your other teeth. Extracting impacted teeth often relieves discomfort and helps prevent infections and cysts.

5. You have partially impacted wisdom teeth

Partially impacted wisdom teeth can be just as problematic. A partially emerged tooth can trap food and debris, which increases your risk of bad breath, tooth decay, and infections. Partially impacted wisdom teeth can also increase your risk of developing a gum condition called pericoronitis. 

6. You’ve experienced severe tooth trauma

Teeth that are severely cracked or fractured, whether due to an accident, sports injury, or biting down on something hard may need an extraction if they can’t be restored through methods like bonding or splinting. 

Extraction is especially common when the damage reaches below your gumline.

7. Your tooth isn’t responding to other treatments

Sometimes, infections develop within or around a tooth, especially if decay or injury affects the inner part of your tooth called the pulp. If your infection doesn’t respond to antibiotics or a root canal, removing the tooth can prevent the infection from spreading to other areas.

8. You’re preparing for a dental implant or dentures

In some cases, extraction is part of a larger treatment plan. For example, if you’re preparing for dental implants or hybrid dentures, Dr. Trizzino might need to have problematic teeth removed before placing your implant posts.

What to expect after your extraction 

Before your tooth is removed, Dr. Trizzino first numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic. After your tooth is removed, you can expect some discomfort for a few days. You go home with post-extraction instructions that may include:

• Guidance on pain management
• Instructions to avoid straws (to reduce your risk of dry socket)
• Dietary modifications, including how long to eat only soft foods

If you had your wisdom teeth removed, you won’t need to replace them, but if you had any other tooth removed, Dr. Trizzino discusses your tooth replacement options, including implants, hybrid dentures, or bridges.

Do you have questions about your extraction? Give us a ring at 770-407-8459. For less urgent matters, book your appointment in our Atlanta, Georgia, office online.