When a Tooth Extraction is Recommended Over a Dental Restoration

The thought of having a tooth extraction may not sound appealing, but it could be the right solution for your dental needs. If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, the dentist will look at every option possible to restore it. There are different treatments, such as crowns, veneers, inlays, and onlays, to repair an affected tooth. You should also be aware of the situations where an extraction will be necessary.

How teeth can suffer damage

Teeth consist of an outer enamel layer and another layer of dentin. Enamel is made up of the hardest materials in the body. This helps the teeth to withstand a lot of wear and tear. Still, damage can occur if there is enough force and when the teeth become diseased.

Biting into a hard object can break, crack, or chip a tooth. Suffering a hard blow to the face in an accident or similar incident can also inflict similar cosmetic damage. Teeth can also become brittle when there is extensive decay or infections. A lack of brushing and flossing can cause this.

When it is a baby tooth

Tooth extraction for younger children may be different than it is for older children and adults in some cases. If a young patient has a broken or cracked tooth, the dentist may prefer to remove it rather than use a filling or crown to repair it. This could be the dentist’s decision, especially if the permanent tooth will soon erupt. The parent may also prefer this strategy and avoid spending more money on restorative work on a tooth that will fall out soon anyway.

When there is widespread infection

Teeth can become infected when decay spreads and affects the pulp of the tooth. Untreated, the infection can get into other parts of the mouth and face. Eventually, it can even find its way into the bloodstream and create problems with the cardiovascular system. Root canal therapy can often treat infections. But when the infection is severe, the dentist may elect to do a tooth extraction instead.

When the tooth is not salvageable

The point of a dental restoration is to save the tooth and preserve as much of its structure as possible. Sometimes, damage or decay is so extensive that restorations will not help. Rather than suffer with pain and discomfort, the patient can benefit from a tooth extraction. It is more common for this to be the case with molars than other teeth in the mouth.

Tooth extraction can be the right treatment for your oral health ailments

Losing a permanent tooth is not an enjoyable prospect. Missing teeth can be an embarrassing condition. It may also be difficult to eat many different kinds of foods. However, there are times when the dentist will suggest removing a tooth over doing a restoration. As you are aware of these circumstances, you can feel prepared and more comfortable for your upcoming visit to the dentist’s office. If you are experiencing extreme tooth pain, call your dentist today and schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.kingdentistry.com or call King Dentistry at (209) 585-1474 for an appointment in our Turlock office.

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