Why Extract a Tooth?
A tooth extraction is a process in which a dentist removes a tooth from its socket in the bone. At Emerald Park Dental Clinic, our dentists will only perform extractions when a less invasive treatment option will not suffice, or if keeping the tooth will compromise your oral health.
The most common reasons for pulling a tooth are excessive tooth damage or problematic wisdom teeth. However, it may also be necessary to extract a tooth in preparation for another dental procedure.
Tooth extraction offers several benefits. Most importantly, it can reduce harmful bacteria that can damage your gums and surrounding teeth.
In more severe cases, removing an infected or damaged tooth can give you the best chance of achieving optimal oral health. A tooth extraction can also help ease dental pain almost immediately, especially if your tooth was infected or had a severe crack or break.
Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Wisdom teeth are the last of your permanent teeth that will erupt (usually between 17 and 25 years of age). Many people don't have enough room in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to erupt properly, resulting in dental problems.
If this is the case, your dentist may recommend removing them to preserve your oral health. Since wisdom teeth erupt in the very back corners of your mouth, there is no need to have these teeth after they have been extracted.
After Your Extraction: What's Next?
Once your tooth has been extracted and your mouth has healed from the procedure, the next step will be deciding how to fill the gap. If you've had a wisdom tooth extracted, a tooth replacement won't be necessary, but in most other cases it will be beneficial to your oral health.
Your tooth replacement options include dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures. Your dentist will discuss these with you and together you'll settle on the best course of action to meet your needs.