Three Common Reasons A Tooth Needs To Be Extracted

Being told that you need to have a tooth removed may not be the news you want to hear from your dentist. However, in some cases an extraction may be the only way to protect the rest of your smile from further damage. Whether your dentist needs to remove a severely damaged tooth or it’s time to extract your wisdom teeth, we’re here to make sure you feel comfortable from the start to the finish of this procedure. In today’s blog, the team at Commonwealth Oral Surgery in Richmond, VA, is here today to talk about a few common reasons for extractions.

The Damage Cannot Be Repaired

If you have a severe cavity or other types of harm done to your smile, your dentist will do their best to restore the tooth instead of having it removed. However, there are some cases where a restoration is not possible. A deep cavity or infection may require extraction to prevent it from spreading and harming your other teeth. Before an extraction, the oral surgery team will take X-rays to get a closer look at the area. Then, the area will be numbed to keep you comfortable during the procedure. We will send you home with specific aftercare instructions to ensure the area heals properly after the tooth removal.

Your Smile Is Overcrowded

In some cases, your orthodontist and oral surgery team may work together to plan extractions to ensure smooth orthodontic treatment. When your smile needs to be aligned, there has to be enough space for each of your teeth to move into the correct position. If you have a smaller smile or overcrowded teeth, it can make orthodontic treatment more efficient and help correct over/underbites. If your orthodontist has recommended this, you can always get a second opinion from another orthodontist and then see us for a consultation to learn about your treatment options.

Wisdom Teeth Have Erupted

Your third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, often erupt in the late teens or early twenties—much later than the rest of your pearly whites. It’s common practice to remove your wisdom teeth, as they are not necessary to the function of your smile and may even potentially harm your other pearly whites. Since they erupt much later, there may not be enough room for them to develop properly, causing them to become impacted. Your dentist may recommend their removal before any serious issues arise, as this can cause discomfort and put you at risk of infection.

Ready To plan your procedure? Call Our Team

If you have been told a tooth needs to be removed, don’t put off treatment. Please contact the team at Commonwealth Oral Surgery in Richmond, VA, at 804-354-1600 to arrange your consultation.