Wasilla, AK Dental Extractions Services
Tooth extraction is the complete removal of a tooth from its socket. It’s often needed in cases where the tooth is too damaged to save, or when existing teeth are blocking other teeth from erupting.
The only way to know for sure if a tooth needs to be extracted is to have a thorough exam with your Wasilla, AK dentist. If you find out that you need an extraction, don’t put it off! Trying to avoid a tooth extraction can lead to pain, swelling, and infection--but once your appointment is over, your pain will be relieved and your dental health greatly improved. Visit Dr. Calvin Kenley, D.M.D., in Wasilla, AK and let an extraction improve your life!
Reasons to Consider Tooth Extraction
Extensive Damage
When fillings, root canals, and crowns aren’t enough to save a tooth, it will likely need to be extracted and then replaced with a prosthetic tooth. Children may need baby teeth extracted if they suffer from extensive decay early in life.
Risk of Infection
Anyone with a weakened immune system is at higher risk for tooth decay and gum disease, and may need to have teeth extracted to prevent infection from spreading throughout the body. People at high risk of infection include cancer patients and those who have had organ transplants.
Impacted Teeth
An impacted tooth is one that is blocked from pushing through the gum, either by other teeth or by excessive soft tissue. This can lead to inflammation and jaw pain, as well as an increased risk of gum disease and decay in the surrounding areas. Impacted teeth are frequently candidates for extraction to prevent complications.
Preparing For Orthodontics
Sometimes there’s simply not enough room in the arch for all the teeth to sit comfortably. In these cases, some teeth may need to be extracted to solve the crowding problem. Crowding can also cause an adult tooth to erupt in the wrong place, failing to push out the baby tooth. The baby tooth must be removed before the crowding can be corrected with orthodontics.
Loose Teeth Due to Periodontal (Gum) Disease
When the gums are infected, the underlying bone can begin to break down and cause teeth to become loose. Sometimes this process can be reversed with bone grafting, but if this isn’t an option for your health condition, then extraction may be necessary.