Reasons for a Tooth Extraction

If you are like most people, the idea of losing one or all of your teeth is an unwelcome and unpleasant thought. In an effort to keep your smile as-is for the remainder of your life, chances are you're making efforts to keep them in good condition. Unfortunately, there is more than one reason why tooth extractions may become necessary.

• Tooth Decay - Tooth decay can cause a number of problems that can ultimately result in the need for a tooth extraction. A severely decayed tooth may become infected to the degree that antibiotics are unable to help. In this case the tooth must be pulled to prevent the spread of infection. Cavities may also result in damage to the tooth that is too extensive to repair, leaving extraction as the only alternative.


• An Impacted Tooth - If a tooth is impacted it is for some reason unable to completely break through the gums like the other teeth. This often occurs with wisdom teeth, which may not have enough room to emerge; however, it can also happen to other teeth, which may have become tilted or misdirected in the gums. When this occurs along with pain, swelling or other discomfort, the tooth may need to be removed.


• Overcrowding - Overcrowding of teeth occurs in mouths where the teeth are too large or where there are extra teeth. The additional teeth must be removed so that proper alignment can be made. Extraction for this reason is often made prior to braces.


• Periodontal Disease - Severe periodontal, or gum disease can cause your gums to loosen around your teeth. When this occurs your teeth may also loosen and the risk of infection increases as food becomes trapped beneath the gums. When this occurs extraction may become a necessity.


• Compromised Immune System - People who are undergoing certain types of procedures may suffer from compromised immune systems. This includes cancer patients taking certain medications and people who are undergoing an organ transplant. For them, the potential risk of infection due to a bad tooth can have severely negative consequences and any suspect tooth may require extraction.