When Are Tooth Extractions Required?
An extraction removes a tooth or tooth fragment from the mouth. This occurs when a tooth has become irreversibly damaged or infected, and there are no viable alternatives. For example, you may have an infected or abscessed tooth or bone loss around the tooth that could lead to other problems.
Your dentist will strive to preserve your teeth by opting for other treatments. However, if you have a tooth that appears to be beyond repair, you may need to visit an extraction dentist near you for assessment.
Some of the reasons you may need a tooth extraction in St. Pete Beach include:
- Severe trauma
This is when the tooth is damaged to such an extent that it needs to be removed. This may occur, for example, if a heavy object has hit it or a medical procedure has broken it.
- Infection.
A severely infected tooth may require extraction, especially if the infection has spread to the supporting tissues.
- Tooth disease
Some tooth diseases, such as periodontal disease, may require the affected tooth to be extracted. This is because the disease is causing further damage to the tooth.
- Extreme decay
If a tooth has severe decay that has reached the root, it may need to be removed.
- Overcrowding
Overcrowding is when the teeth erupt on top of each other because of a lack of jaw space. Crowded teeth can lead to teeth alignment issues, and our dentist in 33706 may recommend extraction to pave the way for the alignment procedure.
What is The Process of Receiving a Tooth Extraction?
The process of receiving an extraction is straightforward. The first step is to schedule an appointment with a dental office in St. Pete Beach. Your dentist evaluates your teeth, gums, and jaw and explains the process of receiving an extraction, the risks, benefits, and alternatives to tooth extractions.
The tooth extraction procedure is done in two ways, either surgical or non-surgical, depending on the visibility and location of the tooth. The dentist will numb the gums, open them and remove the tooth.
What Can You Expect After Extraction?
The most common side effect of extraction is a sore mouth for up to 7 to 10 days, after which you should start to recover. There is a risk of infection, but if it does occur, there are antibiotics that can be administered. Extraction also leaves unsightly gaps that need replacing to prevent bone deterioration.
What Are The Tooth Extraction Alternatives?
Tooth extraction may be unavoidable in some cases, but there are times when alternatives are considered to resolve the problems. Some of the alternatives include:
- Root canal treatment
While most tooth decay is located at the surface of the tooth, the pulp and the root of the tooth are the most fragile parts. When the decay reaches the pulp, the tooth becomes infected, leading to root canal treatment. Your endodontist in St. Pete Beach will remove the infected pulp to stop the spread and save the tooth from extraction.
- Apicectomy
Apicectomy is the removal of the apex (tip of the root. It is a minor procedure performed if the infection persists after a root canal treatment. The dentist will numb the gums, opens the flaps, and remove the infected tissue.
- Fillings
Teeth fillings are used when you have minor cavities affecting only the surface. Dr. Cecilia Sorelle will clean the teeth, drill out the cavity and use a filling to cover it.
- Crowns
A crown is a thin protective cover placed over the tooth to act as a protective layer. This is usually recommended in cases where the tooth is severely damaged, or a large filling is needed. The procedure involves making the crown by carving a replica of the tooth on a model. The dentist will place the finished crown over the damaged area and permanently secure it to the tooth.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Dental Arts St. Pete Beach for more information about tooth extraction, its methods, and the alternatives.
