No one likes the idea of getting a tooth pulled. You might be especially reluctant to consent to the extraction procedure if you are not in any pain! Still, in the vast majority of cases, it is wise to listen to your dentist’s recommendations (of course, you are always free to seek a second opinion if you have doubts). This blog post discusses just a few reasons why you may need to undergo an extraction even if your tooth does not hurt.
Infection
In some cases, an infection in a tooth can cause severe pain. In other instances, though, infections are much sneakier and cause very subtle symptoms — if they cause any noticeable symptoms at all. In some cases, they might even damage a tooth to the point where the nerve inside of it dies, so it can no longer send pain signals to the brain. In some cases, such teeth are not salvageable and should be removed.
Decay
Small spots of decay do not usually cause any symptoms. As cavities deepen, they can cause so much damage to a tooth that repairing it would be impractical or even impossible. In some cases, decayed teeth should be extracted.
Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs when plaque and bacteria attack the pink tissue surrounding the teeth. As this condition progresses, it can cause significant damage to the jawbone, which can cause the teeth to loosen. While your gums might feel sore and tender, your teeth might not be in any pain at all. Still, it may be best to extract them so you can receive thorough gum disease treatment and eventually rebuild your smile with high-quality tooth replacement.
Overcrowding
Some people have a genetic condition that causes them to develop more teeth than average. Other individuals have a very small mouth that simply cannot accommodate all of their teeth. These issues can lead to oral hygiene problems, a misaligned bite, and other complications. In such instances, extracting one or more teeth might be necessary. Afterward, orthodontic treatment can be used to make sure the remaining teeth are able to function optimally.
Prevention
In certain cases, it may be necessary to remove one or more teeth in order to prevent future problems. This is often true of wisdom teeth, which are notorious for causing issues like infections, cysts, pain, and more.
Your Dentist Does Not Want to Remove Your Teeth
Remember, your dentist does not want to extract your teeth. Rather, they want you to enjoy a healthy smile! You can trust them to recommend extractions only when other treatment options are not advisable.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Ben Sutter has been practicing dentistry for nearly 20 years. He focuses on providing a comfortable treatment experience, and he always favors conservative procedures over more extreme options whenever possible. If you have concerns about your dental health, he and our team are ready to assist you. Contact For Beautiful Smiles in Eugene at 541-484-1955.