When is it Time for a Tooth Extraction?

Oct 13, 2016
when is it time for a tooth extraction

While many may dread going to the dentist for a surgical tooth extraction, there are many valid reasons as to why it may be necessary. Here are the top three reasons as to why your dentist may decide a tooth extraction is the best option for you:

  • Overcrowding: This could mean a number of things. One reason why dentists might decide it’s best to extract a tooth is to prepare your mouth for an alignment. It is harder to straighten your teeth with braces or ClearCorrect if your teeth don’t have the room to adjust accordingly. In addition, your dentist may recommend extracting a tooth if there is not enough room for another tooth to grow.
  • Damage: If you have broken or cracked teeth that cannot be salvageable, your dentist may suggest extracting them. Any tooth decay that is beyond repair may also be a candidate for a tooth extraction.
  • Infection: If you have tooth decay that is extensive or has affected the center of your tooth, where the pulp is, bacteria can easily infect it. The pulp is made up of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, so if any of these important living components are significantly impacted, the infection can spread to your other teeth. Your dentist may first recommend a root canal to resolve the issue, but if the infection has become critical to the point that antibiotics or the root canal does not prove effective, then the next step would be to extract the affected tooth to prevent its infection from spreading further.

If you feel like you may be experiencing any of these issues with your teeth, it is important to visit your dentist to learn more about tooth extraction houston to see if it’s the right option for you.

rodrigo

Dr. Rodrigo Cabrera, DDS – Trusted Local Dentist in Houston

Cabrera Dental Associates – Houston, TX

Dr. Rodrigo Cabrera is a general dentist with over 13 years of experience serving families in Southeast Houston (Houston, TX 77075). Dr. Cabrera completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery training at one of the nation’s leading dental programs, where he developed a passion for restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Cabrera stays at the forefront of dentistry through ongoing education (in areas such as sleep apnea treatments and porcelain veneers), ensuring his patients benefit from the latest techniques. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association, and he participates in community health fairs and outreach programs. Known for his gentle, patient-first approach, Dr. Cabrera uses high-quality materials and personalized care that builds trust with each Houston family.