Dental patients may face extractions if they have damaged teeth that are no longer viable. Dentists will perform a variety of services to repair and reconstruct teeth whenever possible. They will complete reconstructive services to restore the tooth or prepare for its removal. When reviewing a patient’s teeth, the dentists determine under what circumstances a tooth should be extracted and when it can be saved.
Is a Root Canal Possible?
A root canal procedure is often the last resort before extracting the tooth, and dental professionals will examine the tooth before considering the surgery. During a root canal procedure, the dentist drills an opening in the tooth and removes the tooth nerve and pulp.
Next, they inject a filling into the tooth and seal it. Some dentists may install a crown over the tooth for added protection. When reviewing this option, dental patients should set up a consultation with the Best Family Dentist now.
Tooth Reconstruction Options
If the tooth is damaged, there are several reconstruction options from which to choose, depending on the type of damage and how much decay has developed on the tooth. First, the dentist will review the condition of the tooth. If it has decay down to the root, it is more likely that the tooth is no longer viable. However, if the decay hasn’t reached the root, the dentist can remove the decay and use a composite resin to reconstruct the tooth and bring it back to its previous condition or better.
Is The Tooth Causing Frequent Infections?
Frequent tooth infections could indicate a more significant issue with the tooth. If the tooth becomes infected too frequently, it presents a very real health risk to the patient, and the infections could move into their bloodstream. If the tooth cannot be repaired to stop the infections, it is time to consider extracting it to prevent further health risks.
How Was the Tooth Damaged?
The way the tooth was damaged could indicate if it is still viable or if it needs to be extracted. For example, if the tooth breaks because of the effects of smoking, the dentist may be able to repair the tooth. However, if the patient continues to smoke, the teeth remain susceptible to more damage and decay.
If a tooth is damaged because the patient bit into hard foods, the dentist assesses the tooth and establishes the best way to repair it. As long as the patient doesn’t continue to consume hard foods, they can protect their teeth more proactively.
Is It a Wisdom Tooth?
Typically, wisdom teeth are a source of issues, and dental professionals recommend removing them. For young adults, dentists often recommend having their wisdom teeth removed as soon as they erupt. However, many adults do not undergo the extractions. Wisdom teeth can present a series of problems including infections and impaction. An infected wisdom tooth could present a serious health risk to the patient and must be extracted promptly.
Dental patients can set up appointments with their preferred dental professionals to get annual examinations. During the exams, the dentist will review their teeth and determine if a damaged tooth can be repaired or if it is time to extract it. Dental professionals will do everything they can to avoid an extraction including root canal surgery.
