How to know if you need a tooth extraction? 

Apr 17, 2023 | Dental services, Teeth extraction

Toothaches can be extremely painful. The scourge of toothache possesses within it the power to cripple our ability to perform day-to-day tasks with ease. Dental treatment may be used to ease dental pain and eliminate the underlying condition. However, there are times when a complete tooth extraction is the only way to claim your sanity back. Read on to learn more about the tooth removal process and how to know if you need one. 

What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction refers to a dental procedure that involves the removal of a single tooth or more from the gum. This is a procedure that can be carried out by a dentist, a periodontist, or an oral surgeon. The procedure is also called dental extraction. Tooth decay, overcrowded teeth, tooth breakage, and wisdom tooth extraction are some common reasons for a simple extraction.

How to know if you need a tooth extraction?

Dental extraction can be the ultimate source of relief from a constantly aching tooth. However, not every form of toothache requires removal. It’s important to know the signs that will allow you to determine the severity of your case and if a tooth extraction is indeed the necessary next step for you to recover your oral health. Of course, getting a professional opinion from your dentist will be the only way to be certain about this process, as they are the ones with the necessary knowledge and years of experience to finalize this decision. 

Here are a few signs to help you know if you need a tooth extraction:

  • Sudden sensitivity to hotness and coldness

Sudden sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks can be a sign that you need a tooth extraction. One or more teeth can become overly sensitive to food temperatures when an underlying tooth decay depletes the enamel layer. Tooth extraction may be required to correct extensive tooth decay.

  • Swollen gums

A swollen gum around one or two teeth can be a sign of an underlying tooth infection. It can also be a sign that you need to get the infected tooth extracted. It’s best to be safe and book an appointment with a dentist so that they can assess your situation. 

  • Acute pain and jaw stiffness

Severe pain and jaw stiffness can also be a sign that a tooth extraction is needed. Pain may result from damages caused by periodontal disease or a serious injury like a car accident. Our dentist will provide you with pain medication during this procedure. 

Why do teeth need to be extracted?

Tooth extraction is typically needed when your teeth cannot be saved by other procedures. For example, in the case of extensive decay where your tooth cannot be restored with a dental crown or cavity filling, complete extraction becomes an option. 

Tooth extraction needs to be performed to correct certain teeth conditions including abscesses and gum disease. Relieving you of pain, and restoring your comfort and dental health are also reasons why your teeth may need to be extracted.

What are the benefits of a tooth extraction?

Relieving pain is the first noticeable benefit you will experience after a dental extraction process. It also reduces the number of bacteria present on your tooth surface thus lowering the risk of future teeth and gum problems. If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain, wisdom tooth removals can help. Strenuous activity could also cause discomfort for your jaw bone making dental extractions useful. In a nutshell, the biggest benefit of tooth extraction is that it will bring back your oral health and take away any pain or discomfort you might be experiencing. 

What is the tooth extraction procedure like?

Tooth extraction can be viewed as a complicated and very painful surgical procedure, but we are here to put your mind at ease. Not only is this actually a very common procedure, but with our professional team of experts, there is no reason why your process should be painful or nerve-wracking.

  1. Our dentists will ask you about your medical history before going into the dental extraction process to determine what’s right for you.
  2. Local anesthesia will be applied to the extraction area, making the process painless.
  3. An instrument known as an elevator will be used to loosen your gum, then your tooth will be extracted with a pair of extraction forceps.

We promise, your health and comfort are our top priorities, which means you can trust us when we tell you this will be a careful and comfortable experience. Come by Annex Dentistry to see exactly what we mean. Our professional dentists are ready to help you resolve your teeth conditions and ensure you have a pain-free dental extraction process. We will also keep appointments with you to monitor your healing process. Get in touch with us today to discuss your particular situation and explore a feasible pathway to your dental relief. You can also send us an email at [email protected] or call us at 416-962-4022. We will help you regain your oral health in no time!