What Is A Tooth Extraction?

When the word dentist comes to mind, it is often associated with having teeth removed. This is a procedure that is clinically known as tooth extraction and may be performed for different reasons. For instance, if you suffer from periodontal, or gum disease, your gums become damaged and decayed, and are no longer able to support surrounding teeth. When your teeth do not have the necessary support required to stay in place, a tooth extraction then becomes necessary.

When Is A Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Along with periodontitis, there are many other reasons why you may need a tooth extracted. For example, when wisdom teeth grow in, this may potentially cause overcrowding, crooked teeth, a misaligned bite, and potentially further dental complications. As a precaution, wisdom teeth are extracted as they grow in to prevent issues from arising. Other reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted may include:

• if a tooth is unable to fully erupt, or break through the gums
• if there is a potential risk of infection
• When infection has reached the center, or pulp, of a tooth, and root canal therapy will not be enough to save it

Replacing An Extracted Tooth

Once a tooth is extracted, you are left with an uncomfortable crevice where a tooth used to sit; however, this is not something you will be forced to live with. There are a few options available to fill the void of a lost tooth and achieve a bright, shiny, new smile, such as:

• Dental bridge – this is where one or two replacement teeth are anchored on either side by crowns, allowing the replacement teeth to rest secured by the adjacent teeth that remain on your dental ridge
• Dental implant – which describes a titanium post that mimics a tooth root, and can be inserted into your jawbone then topped with a realistic-looking dental crown to create a comprehensive, lifelike tooth replacement

ABOUT YOUR D ALLAS, TX, FAMILY DENTISTS:

Dr. Tran, Dr. Hoang, and the friendly, welcoming staff at Gentle Smiles will do everything possible to make you feel at home. Contact us today by calling 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE) to experience our compassionate, effective, and individualized care. We proudly serve patients from Dallas, TX, and all surrounding communities, including Mesquite, Balch Springs, Garland, and Seagoville.