General Extraction

Why do Teeth Need to be Extracted?

When teeth become damaged by decay or break down due to trauma or wear they can typically be restored with a filling, root canal or crown. When the damage is too great, your dentist may decide that the best course of action is to have the tooth removed. If this is the case, your dentist will develop a plan for extraction, taking into consideration your age, health and the overall condition of your mouth. Most tooth extractions can be performed in one surgical visit.

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Some Common Reasons that a Tooth may Need to be Extracted:

Infection and decay: If a tooth is decayed, it is important to have it treated in the early stages when it can be repaired with a dental filling. If left untreated, decay continues to grow and affect the integrity of your tooth, which may now require root canal therapy, a crown or extraction.

Loose teeth: Many patients are affected by periodontal or “gum” disease. Left untreated, periodontal disease may cause teeth to shift, become loose or lead to serious infection.

Crowding: There are times when seemingly healthy teeth need to be removed. When a young patient retains their deciduous or “baby” teeth for too long, the dentist may recommend they be removed to aid the eruption of permanent teeth. Occasionally we are born with too many teeth or our mouth is too small for all the teeth we have. In these instances your orthodontist may recommend that a tooth be removed.

Trauma: Teeth may be fractured or broken off due to an accident. If there isn’t enough structure remaining for a filling or crown, your dentist may recommend that the rest of the tooth be removed.

During your consultation, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon will discuss your options for replacing the missing teeth. In many cases it is possible to place a dental implant at the same time the tooth is extracted.

If you have questions or concerns, or wish to speak with one of our oral/maxillofacial specialists, then please contact our staff at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery, or set up an appointment by clicking here.