While dentists strive to preserve natural teeth, in cases of severe damage, decay, or breakage, removal, and replacement may be the best course of action. When a tooth is beyond repair, extraction is a necessary step to safeguard your dental health.
Many patients balk at the news that they need to have one of their pearly whites taken out. It’s normal to be anxious, but it’s also important to remember that your dentist wouldn’t have recommended this treatment if they didn’t feel it was necessary. Continue reading to learn about 3 of the benefits of having a tooth extracted and why you don’t have to worry!
Advantage #1: Pain Relief
It’s natural to assume that having a tooth pulled involves a lot of pain, but in many instances, removing it relieves more sensations than it causes. For example, if you’re suffering from a toothache and your dentist cannot repair it with a restoration, then extracting the culprit is the best way to alleviate your discomfort.
Plus, your dentist will want to keep you calm and relaxed throughout your appointment and will administer a topical anesthetic to numb the area first. If you’re still worried, ask your dentist whether they offer sedation. Many providers are happy to administer medication to alleviate anxiety or to help you sit still through your procedure.
Advantage #2: Prevent Additional Decay
Did you know that cavities can be contagious? If you have developed tooth decay, bacteria can penetrate through your enamel and into your root. The resulting infection can spread to neighboring teeth and your jawbone. If it’s left unaddressed, your jaw could become so weak that it can no longer sustain your teeth, and you risk losing them. By taking out the damaged pearly white sooner rather than later, your dentist can keep your oral health intact.
Advantage #3: Enhance Your Appearance
One of the first things people notice about you is your smile, and if you have a fractured or rotting tooth, you might start to feel self-conscious. Studies have determined that people with dental problems are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and a lack of desire to socially engage.
Your dentist can extract the troublesome tooth and replace it with a beautiful restoration that’s customized to match your grin. This is sure to boost your confidence, as no one can tell the difference between your prosthetic and natural teeth.
By extracting an injured or infected tooth, your dentist can preserve your overall dental well-being for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Praveena Muddana takes pride in helping families build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. She initially graduated from Narayana Dental College in India before earning another dental degree from the NYU College of Dentistry. Today, she offers a full range of services from two convenient locations, including tooth extractions. She combines a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art technology to provide patient-focused care. She also offers sedation so that you don’t feel any discomfort during your procedure. If you have a damaged tooth and think you might need to have it taken out, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (414) 808-2003.