Signs a Tooth Needs to Be Extracted
Sometimes, despite your best efforts to care for them, teeth need to be extracted, either because of damage, infection or other problems. Tooth extraction can be used as treatment for tooth decay, tooth abscesses, tooth loss, or complications due to tooth damage. There are several signs that you should look out for if you think your tooth needs to be extracted. Here are some signs to look for that may indicate it’s time for an appointment with Dr. Pollock.
No. 1: Severe Pain
Although severe tooth or jaw pain can be a sign of many different oral complications, it can definitely be a sign a tooth needs to be extracted. In many cases, this pain may come and go and is rarely consistent over long periods of time. You should always see your dentist at the first sign of pain, even if it goes away temporarily.
No. 2: Jaw Stiffness
Pain or stiffness in the jaw can be a sign of many problems, such as temporomandibular disorder, infection or even a broken tooth. In any case, jaw stiffness is a sign you need to be seen by your dentist ASAP. Your dentist can rule out anything serious and treat whatever may be causing it before it gets worse or begins to affect other areas of the mouth.
No. 3: Broken Tooth
A damaged tooth, whether it is cracked, fractured or completely broken, is susceptible to infection and many times may be damaged beyond repair. This makes extraction the only real option for fixing the problem.
No. 4: Infection
Infection in the form of an abscess or gum disease can damage the pulp of the tooth. If the root and pulp become decayed or damaged enough, it may be time to extract the tooth. This is especially true for patients undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplants, in which case extracting the tooth is likely the safest option to avoid any immune system problems due to infection.
No. 5: Impacted Tooth
Sometimes a tooth cannot push through the gums and becomes trapped under the surface completely, or just part of the tooth emerges from the gum while the rest remains trapped under the gum line. This is known as an impacted tooth, and in some cases, these teeth must be extracted.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, we can help! Tooth extractions aren’t anything to fear and they will lead to a more healthy smile in the end. The team here at Rockwall Oral Surgery has extensive experience in tooth extraction and can help get your mouth back to the healthy, happy place it once was before tooth pain began interfering with your life. Call us today at (469)264-8921 and book an appointment at our Rockwall location.
