“Dental extraction” is the term we use to describe removing a tooth from the mouth. Most dentists will tell you that maintaining your natural teeth is always preferable for keeping a healthy, strong mouth. But sometimes, a tooth becomes negative – rather than positive – to your overall health and wellbeing. Though “pulling a tooth” can sound scary, our dentists are experienced and highly skilled in removing teeth with minimal discomfort. Below, learn the most common reasons why your Denver dentist could recommend a tooth extraction.
When it comes to oral health, you want to choose the best for you and your family. To find the best, look no further than Metro Dental Care! Our downtown Denver practice was just named Top Dentist by 5280 Magazine. We’re proud to have served the Denver area for over 30 years. For great dental care in a convenient location, contact our practice and schedule your first consultation with a member of our team.
Advanced Dental Decay
Cavities, or small holes in enamel, form as tooth decays. Early action can treat these holes simply, usually through a small composite filling, or a dental crown in cases of more advanced decay. But for patients who do not receive early intervention, the tooth decay could be so advanced that it threatens the entire structure of the tooth. Once a tooth can no longer be saved through more conservative approaches like a root canal or dental crown, an extraction may be the final option for effectively removing decay and preventing the spread of infection in the mouth.
Extensive Trauma to the Tooth
Teeth can handle a lot of pressure, but can also be cracked or broken by the smallest of popcorn kernels. That’s because, though strong, teeth are brittle. Tooth enamel is made up of calcium phosphate minerals which can break, crack, or chip more easily because of the crystallized structure. When trauma occurs (either from biting down on a seed or kernel or being knocked in the mouth from a sports injury or fall) the tooth may become so broken or damaged that it cannot be corrected through dental crowns or fillings. In these cases, an extraction may be the best way to reduce painful symptoms and begin the first step towards tooth replacement treatment through dental implants.
An Impacted Tooth
Each person has two complete sets of teeth during their life: “baby” teeth (otherwise known as primary teeth) and permanent teeth. Starting at a young age, baby teeth begin falling out to open up space for larger permanent teeth which fill in the space left behind. Sometimes, this process can come to a halt when teeth are impacted. This is a term used to describe teeth that don’t break through the gumline properly. Sometimes, impacted teeth partially break through the surface of the gums, or sometimes they don’t break through at all. Either way can cause negative impacts on a patient’s oral health down the road. For instance, teeth that are only partially exposed are magnets for plaque and tartar, and difficult to brush and floss around, putting the patient at an increased risk for tooth decay or infection.
Your dentist may need to perform an extraction if one or more of your child’s primary teeth are impacted. Once extracted, the permanent tooth can come through and fill in your child’s smile. Other times, impacted permanent teeth need to be removed. Most often, people experience this with wisdom teeth.
Tooth Extraction Treatment in Denver, CO
Tooth extraction can be an important part of oral health care, and does not mean your smile will suffer a permanent gap. We’re proud to offer dental implants to replace and restore extracted teeth and ensure a strong, functional bite for a lifetime. To set up your next appointment, or to speak with a member of our team about dental extractions further, call our practice at 303.534.2626.
