Signs You May Need to Have a Tooth Pulled

What are some of the common signs that you may need to have a tooth extracted? Here, our Mount Pearl dentists list some symptoms - and what you should do next during this potential dental emergency.

What is a tooth extraction?

During a tooth extraction, we surgically remove a tooth. At Mount Pearl Dental, we take a preventive, non-invasive approach to treatment when possible, and therefore only perform tooth extractions in cases where a damaged tooth threatens the health of the other teeth in your mouth.

This procedure is also commonly referred to as having a tooth pulled and may, in some cases, be considered a dental emergency.

Why would I need a tooth extraction?

Our Mount Pearl dentists prefer to avoid tooth extractions as missing teeth can cause other dental health issues that are costly and time-consuming to fix. However, in some situations the procedure is necessary. Here are a few cases:

The tooth is severely infected or decayed

For one or more teeth with small cavities, we can use fillings to restore their appearance and function if this decay is caught in its earlier stages.

With that being said, if the decay has advanced and caused severe infection, it may be either difficult or even impossible to restore the original condition of a tooth using a root canal or a crown. This leaves extraction as the only suitable treatment.

The tooth has endured severe damage or fractured

A sudden injury to the mouth - such as while playing sports or during a fall – can result in a broken, chipped or knocked-out tooth. Not only is this painful, but it is also more vulnerable to infection and decay.

On top of this, a fractured tooth with jagged edges may cause harm to your mouth's inner tissues, including your lips, tongue and cheeks. Your dentist may need to pull a tooth fractured in this way and replace it with a dental implant or some other kind of restoration.

Your teeth are crowded

Some teeth may erupt at different times, resulting in disproportionate growth. It’s also possible that a tooth has shifted into the wrong position or become misaligned.

Whatever the reason, crowded teeth can become painful and be more susceptible to decay as it’s difficult to keep them clean. Your jaw may start to feel sore. Your dentist may recommend having the tooth pulled.

Gum disease has caused loose teeth

Advanced gum disease (also called periodontal disease) can lead to loosened teeth and even the loss of teeth. While our dentists do what they can to help avoid losing teeth to gum disease or tooth decay, when teeth become loose, the only treatment option may be extraction.

What can I do if my tooth needs to be pulled?

If your dentist needs to perform a tooth extraction to preserve your oral health, you have a few restoration options once the procedure is complete. Depending on your specific case, your dentist may recommend a dental crown, dental bridge, dentures or an implant to replace a tooth missing from your smile.

At Mount Pearl Dental, we take the time to explain procedures and treatment options in detail and why we are recommending them. Don’t hesitate to contact us for advice concerning symptoms or potential treatments.