When are Tooth Extractions Needed?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. This procedure is also commonly referred to as having a tooth pulled.
Your dentist at Apex Dental will do everything possible to save your natural teeth. But sometimes, restorative methods, such as dental fillings, aren’t enough, resulting in the need for an extraction.
Your dentist may recommend tooth extraction if you have severe tooth decay, impacted teeth (common with wisdom teeth), crowding, or gum disease. Regardless of the reason, your dentist will thoroughly explain the procedure to you and ensure that you are fully aware of what to expect before beginning.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that will erupt. They take the space in the back corners of an adult's mouth when they are between the ages of 17 and 25.
This final set of teeth is not always functional and can lead to difficulties with oral hygiene and other oral health issues. If this is the case, your dentist may recommend removing these teeth as soon as they erupt.
Replacing Missing Teeth
After a tooth is extracted, a gap is left behind, causing adjacent teeth to shift and fill the space. This movement can result in misalignment, crooked teeth, bite problems, and even jawbone deterioration over time.
If you have a damaged tooth that requires extraction, your dentist will discuss replacement options with you, including dentures, dental bridges, or implants.