Reasons for Tooth Extraction

Although our “adult” teeth were meant to last for a lifetime, there are a variety of reasons why a tooth extraction may be necessary. Here are a few reasons patients usually require a tooth extraction:

Teeth Crowding

There are certain occasions when a patient doesn’t have enough room for all the teeth in their mouth. This can cause crowding and on occasion completely stop teeth from erupting. Most dentists will recommend tooth extraction before orthodontic treatment to correct alignment issues of teeth.

Tooth Infection

When teeth and decay are neglected, the result can often be an infection. In most cases, root canal therapy can be an effective treatment for removing the bacteria and infection; however, if the infection is severe, a tooth extraction may be the only option to prevent the infection from spreading and causing more damage.

Risk of Oral Infection

For certain patients, such as those receiving chemotherapy or those with immune disorders, an infection can be life threatening. If you are one of these patients and are at risk for an oral infection, the safest and best treatment option may be the extraction of the infected tooth.

Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Patients that suffer from periodontal gum disease have an infection of the tissue and bones that support teeth. As the disease progresses, many patients will experience the loosening and shifting of teeth. In certain situations, the best course of treatment may be the removal of the affected teeth.

Wisdom Teeth

Most people eventually have their wisdom teeth removed; they often can become impacted and fail to erupt, leading to discomfort and sometimes serious infection. If your wisdom teeth will not erupt or may potentially cause dental issues, your dentist will most likely advise you to have them extracted.

If you experience any of these reasons for a tooth extraction, contact our Katy dental office today. We’d be happy to evaluate your teeth, gums and overall oral health to see if you are a candidate for a tooth extraction.