Our teeth are incredibly important. We need them for chewing, speaking, and maintaining a beautiful smile. However, there are times when a tooth extraction becomes necessary. Indeed, a tooth extraction may be the very thing you need to keep your smile looking and feeling its best.
Do you suspect that you might need a tooth pulled? Contact Dental Care of Lombard in Lombard, IL, today. Our dentist, Dr. Julie Glud, can help you get the comfortable and comprehensive care you need. Just call (630) 629-5700 to get scheduled now!
While nobody wants to lose a tooth, it’s essential to recognize the signs that indicate it might be the best course of action for your oral health. In this blog, we explore some common signs that suggest you might need a tooth extraction.
1. Severe Tooth Pain
Persistent, severe tooth pain is one of the most readily apparent signs that something is wrong with your smile. Various dental issues can cause this pain, such as advanced decay, infection, or a fractured tooth.
2. Gum Infections (Gingivitis or Periodontitis)
Gum infections can weaken the supporting structures of the teeth. If left untreated, gum infections (frequently called gingivitis or periodontitis) can lead to tooth loss. If you notice persistent gum swelling, bleeding, or a bad taste in your mouth, it’s essential to consult your dentist promptly to prevent tooth loss.
3. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Third molars (commonly called wisdom teeth) often don’t have enough space to emerge properly in the mouth. This can cause impaction, which can lead to significant pain and various dental problems.
Impacted wisdom teeth may lead to infection, damage to surrounding teeth, and discomfort. In such cases, extraction is often recommended to prevent further complications. These types of extractions are extremely common, with roughly 10 million molars pulled yearly.
4. Overcrowding
Sometimes, overcrowded teeth can make it challenging to maintain proper oral health and hygiene. In some cases, extracting one or more teeth can create the necessary space for proper hygiene and orthodontic treatment (such as braces).
5. Extensive Tooth Damage
Sometimes, trauma or extensive decay can severely damage a tooth. In these cases, the tooth may not be salvageable through conventional dental procedures (like fillings or crowns). In such cases, your dentist may recommend extraction to prevent further complications.
6. Infection or Abscess
An untreated dental infection can lead to the formation of a painful abscess. A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms on the gums around the tooth’s root.
Abscesses can be dangerous, as the infection can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. In most cases, a dentist will recommend extracting the infected tooth to eliminate the source of the infection and prevent it from spreading.
7. Fractured Teeth
Extraction may be the only option to prevent infection, pain, and further complications after sustaining a fractured tooth. Your dentist will assess the extent of the fracture to determine the best course of action.
Need a gentle tooth extraction? We can help!
If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, contact our dentist in Lombard, IL, now. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse. A gentle tooth extraction with our compassionate team can help preserve the rest of your smile while preventing costly issues in the future. Schedule an appointment at Dental Care of Lombard here, or call our team at (630) 629-5700.
