When Should a Loose Tooth Be Removed?

About that Loose Tooth

You may do everything you can to strengthen and protect your teeth, but some teeth can’t be saved. An extraction can sometimes be the best solution to an ongoing dental health problem.

Severe Decay

Cavities are normally fixed with dental fillings and root canals. If a cavity gets too large for these conventional methods, your tooth should be removed.

Trauma

Broken teeth can result from accidents, injury, or illness. In some cases, your teeth may be chipped and broken beyond repair. Crumbling or cracking teeth is bad for your overall health and you may not like the way they look. Extraction followed by restoring that space can give you a fresh start.

Impacted Teeth

Impacted teeth get stuck in the gums and don’t grow out. They can cause a lot of discomforts. Impacted teeth are common in wisdom teeth. Extraction is the only way to remove these teeth.

Weak Immune System

If you are about to get chemotherapy or undergo major surgery, it’s important to be free from potential sources of infection. This is especially true if your immune system is already weakened by chronic illness or medication. Your doctor may decide it is safest to remove an infected tooth that could affect your treatment.

Preparation for Dental Devices

Before you get braces or dentures, your dentist may need to remove teeth that get in the way. Crowded teeth, impacted teeth, and teeth that are too decayed to save may all be removed to make way for braces, Invisalign treatments, bridges, or dentures.

What Happens During a Dental Extraction?

Many people fear a dental extraction will be painful. While you may feel some pressure while the tooth is being pulled from your gum, the overall procedure will not hurt. Your dentist starts by numbing the tooth and gum. Some dentists may also use mild sedation to help you relax during the procedure.

Aftercare

Aftercare is critically important after an extraction. Follow your dentist’s guidelines, which may include the following.

• Rest: Your gum tissues are extremely sensitive. They need time to heal. Sleep with pillows to keep your head elevated.
• Avoid strenuous activities for several days. Gentle walking is fine.
• Don’t rinse: Don’t brush your teeth or use mouthwash after an extraction. Doing so can damage the blood clot that must form in order to heal
• Use a saltwater rinse: After 24 hours have passed, use salt water to rinse your teeth after meals.

If you think you need an extraction, contact Malan Family Dentistry today. We provide complete care in a warm, family-friendly setting.