Our dental professionals see many patients who wait until the last minute before they decide to seek care for their dental problems. Waiting too long to have your teeth examined, especially if you need a tooth removed, could lead to other problems. As such, it’s imperative to be familiar with the telltale symptoms that could indicate your need for a tooth extraction.
Pain in the Gums or Jawbone
One of the most obvious symptoms that you may need a tooth removed is if you have ongoing or severe pain in your gums or jaw. Pain is typically an indicator that something isn’t right in your mouth. For example, it could mean that you have an infection in your gums or tooth, a deep cavity, or that your wisdom teeth are appearing and may need to be removed.
Other symptoms that you may need your tooth removed due to a tooth or gum issue include the following:
- Bad breath that you can’t explain or remedy, no matter what you do
- Bleeding, swelling, and sensitivity in the back of your mouth near where your wisdom teeth are located
- Pain in your neck, jaw, or mouth
- Headaches that seem to originate from the jaw
- Loose teeth that shouldn’t be loose
- A tooth that is fractured to the root or below the gum line (typically can’t be replaced and should be repaired instead)
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, call our office to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Our dental providers can thoroughly evaluate your areas of pain and other symptoms and determine whether or not you need a tooth extraction.
Other Reasons Tooth Extraction Might Be Necessary
While dental pain is one of the most obvious signs that you may need a tooth removed, it’s not the only one. You may need to have a tooth or several teeth removed if:
- You have severe periodontal disease.
- You have a severe tooth infection.
- The tooth is badly damaged and can’t be restored with a filling or a crown.
- You are experiencing pain even after a filling, crown, or treatment for a root canal.
Keep in mind that there could also be other reasons that are not painful for electing to have a tooth extraction.
Tooth Extraction for Orthodontics/Overcrowding
Sometimes, one or more teeth need to be removed due to overcrowding in the mouth, your desire for cosmetic dentistry, and the orthodontic care plan. You may need a tooth extraction if:
- Your mouth lacks enough room for the tooth
- The tooth is placing pressure on the other teeth and crowding them
- You need orthodontic treatment, and removing the tooth will make treatment easier
Suppose your dentist decides it’s in your best interest to have one or more teeth removed for these reasons. In that case, they will discuss their entire plan with you, ensuring you understand why the extraction is necessary.
Are You Experiencing Dental Problems? Do You Think You Might Need a Tooth Extraction? Schedule an Appointment Today
Pain or discomfort is the most significant indicator of a potential necessary tooth extraction. Often when a dental patient experiences pain, something isn’t right with the tooth that will need to be fixed or repaired. Sometimes the only treatment or fix is to take the tooth out completely.
At Champagne Smiles, we will explore all options before recommending tooth removals for dental and orthodontic treatment. Contact our dental professionals today at 732-972-0918 to schedule your appointment.