Has your dentist recommended a tooth extraction? An oral and maxillofacial surgeon will remove your tooth during this common oral surgery procedure.
There are several different conditions that might warrant a tooth extraction. Here is an explanation of five complications that might require your tooth to be removed.
1. Tooth Decay
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If you’re diligent about taking good care of your teeth and regularly scheduling dental visits, your dentist probably catches tooth decay early in the form of cavities. However, sometimes because of genetics, disease, or poor oral hygiene, decay can spread and cause infections that cannot be fixed with other treatments.
In this case, your oral surgeon will perform a tooth extraction to remove the tooth and any decay or infection before it can spread.
2. Overcrowding
When teeth are overcrowded, crooked, or misaligned, it’s difficult to keep them clean. You may also struggle to chew properly. Children might also experience overcrowding if their permanent teeth come in and there isn’t much room for them.
Your dentist may recommend an extraction to minimize overcrowding or to prepare a child or teen for orthodontic treatment.
3. Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common complication in the mouth. Bacteria enter pockets of plaque between your teeth and gums. Unfortunately, this can lead to loose teeth.
If standard periodontal treatments cannot restore the gum tissue, your oral surgeon might perform an extraction to remove the loose tooth.
4. Tooth Trauma
Sports, accidents, and injuries can lead to teeth that are chipped, cracked, or hit hard enough to cause damage to the inner pulp. A tooth could also be damaged below the gumline. Any of these forms of trauma may be irreparable or risk tooth infection.
To prevent infection or further tooth damage, tooth extraction might be necessary.
5. Impacted Tooth
One of the most common instances of impacted teeth is wisdom teeth. Impaction occurs when a tooth does not have room to erupt fully above the gumline. It can cause damage or misalignment of adjacent teeth.
In this case, your oral surgeon will perform surgery to remove the impacted tooth and prevent complications.
Tooth Extraction with Robert Peak DDS
Dr. Robert Peak performs tooth extractions as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Fort Worth. He provides compassionate care and expertise for all of your oral surgery needs. Contact our office to schedule an appointment and consultation. You can also learn more about our sedation and anesthesia options, so you feel comfortable during your surgery.