When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary Brooklyn, NY
A tooth extraction involves removing an infected or damaged tooth to prevent further issues in the mouth while also protecting other teeth in the mouth. While it may not always be necessary, certain factors can lead to an extraction being the most effective option for treatment. Many people are intimidated when they hear they may need to extract a tooth.
It is only natural since most people grow up being told their adult teeth should last the rest of their lives. If an extraction is necessary, it is crucial to speak with a dental professional.
Tooth extraction is available at Nostrand Dental in Brooklyn and the surrounding area. We can help take care of all your oral healthcare needs. Call us today at (718) 513-9685 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Tooth Extraction Is Normal
Adult teeth are meant to be permanent and last a lifetime. Unfortunately, however, even the most careful patients are not immune to accidents or dental issues. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), tooth extractions are usually necessary due to tooth crowding, dental disease, or orofacial trauma.
In most cases, the procedure itself is relatively simple and can be performed in a single dental appointment while the patient is under general anesthesia. Teeth that are visible above the gum line will require us to numb the extraction site before removing the tooth with forceps, while broken or impacted teeth will necessitate a more complex procedure.
“In most cases, [tooth extraction] itself is relatively simple and can be performed in a single dental appointment while the patient is under general anesthesia.”
Preventing Infection
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, gum disease is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults. Gum disease occurs when bacteria get below the gum line and causes infections. Without treatment, oral bacterial leads to gum recession, damage to the jawbone, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
Research has also shown chronic dental infections can cause inflammation that contributes to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and many other related diseases. While a root canal can often save a tooth from decay, sometimes a tooth is beyond saving due to lost structure and stability. Tooth extraction can prevent damaging decay and infection from spreading.
“Tooth extraction can prevent damaging decay and infection from spreading.”
Common Types of Tooth Extractions
Teeth are often extracted when they are either crowding or impacted. Crowded teeth cannot fit adequately in the mouth, while impacted teeth (usually wisdom teeth) do not have enough room to grow. Impacted wisdom teeth are among the most common types of tooth extractions, and they typically come in during a patient's late teens or twenties. Not all wisdom teeth have to be extracted. However, once they start causing problems, extraction may become necessary.
It is also not uncommon to require tooth extractions before receiving braces. Orthodontic treatment necessitates a proper realignment of the teeth, which requires adequate room in the mouth. As such, crowded teeth may require extraction to achieve desired results. This may also reduce the patient's risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
“Teeth are often extracted when they are either crowding or impacted.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary in Brooklyn, NY
When Tooth Restorations Are Not Enough
Thanks to modern-day advances in dental technology, there are several tooth restoration treatments available that a patient may be able to try before having to turn to tooth extraction. In most cases, time is of the essence, and patients who can come in to see Nostrand Dental soon enough have higher chances of saving their teeth. However, teeth that are severely decayed are usually beyond repair, and gums that are severely infected are generally unable to support the teeth.
Adult teeth are meant to be permanent and can withstand tremendous wear and tear. Still, this does not make them strong enough to endure countless repairs. Each treatment and retreatment wears away at the natural tooth until there is little left to save. At a certain point, the patient will only experience more dental health problems by maintaining their natural tooth, and a tooth extraction becomes the most viable option.
“…teeth that are severely decayed are usually beyond repair, and gums that are severely infected are generally unable to support the teeth.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Why is stopping infection from spreading important?
Q. Is tooth extraction normal?
Q. What are the common types of tooth extractions?
Q. When are tooth restorations not enough to save a tooth?
Q. What kind of accidents can lead to tooth extractions?
People Also Ask
Q. How will my doctor help me prepare for my tooth extraction?
Q. When should one seek emergency dental care?
Q. What methods are available to repair a chipped tooth?
Q. What are partial removable dentures for one missing tooth?
Accidents Leading to Tooth Extractions
While adult teeth are extremely durable, they are not immune to damage. Both minor and major dental injuries can occur due to orofacial trauma. While most injuries from orofacial trauma are minor, some may be severe enough to necessitate tooth extraction. Common accidents leading to tooth extractions include, but are not limited to, car accidents, sports injuries, and slip-and-falls.
Since time is of the essence whenever there is any damage to the tooth, patients must get to our office as soon as possible after their accident. We can examine the tooth for any signs of additional damage that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. Tooth extraction may be necessary if teeth have become severely fractured, making them loose and unable to be restored. Even seemingly mild dental trauma should be taken seriously.
“Both minor and major dental injuries can occur due to orofacial trauma.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do tooth extractions hurt?
A. In most cases, the patient will receive general or local anesthesia to keep them comfortable during the procedure. Some teeth that require extraction have even lost some of their nerve signals. We will do everything in our power to keep your safety and comfort at the forefront of everything we do.
Q. What should I tell my dentist before my tooth extraction?
A. Tooth extraction is generally a safe procedure, but there is a small risk of harmful bacteria entering the bloodstream. It also puts gum tissue at a small risk of infection. As such, patients with any conditions that put them at high risk for developing a severe infection may need to take antibiotics before and after the extraction. Make sure to let Nostrand Dental know your complete medical history and any medications and supplements you are currently taking. It is also essential to let us know if you have congenital heart defects, artificial joints, damaged or man-made heart valves, impaired immune system, liver disease, or a history of bacterial endocarditis.
Q. When should I call the dentist after my tooth extraction?
A. Some swelling and residual bleeding 24 hours after a tooth extraction are normal and to be expected. However, you should call us immediately if you are experiencing severe pain and bleeding for more than four hours after the tooth extraction. You should also let us know if you are experiencing any signs of infection (such as fever and chills), nausea and vomiting, cough, shortness of breath, redness, swelling, chest pain, or excessive discharge from the treated area.
Q. What is it like to recover from a tooth extraction?
A. It usually takes a few days to recover from a tooth extraction. Some minor pain and discomfort are not unusual, and they can generally be controlled with over-the-counter medications. Eating soft foods, refraining from tobacco use, and applying an ice pack can also help.
Q. What happens after a tooth extraction?
A. We may prescribe you painkillers to prevent infection. Take these as directed. Do not rinse or spit forcefully for 24 hours after the extraction, lest you dislodge the clot forming in the socket. Remember to follow any other direction we provide you.
Scan here to view this page, When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary, on mobile
Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
When necessary, tooth extraction can relieve pain and give you have a more functional smile. Our team at Nostrand Dental can help determine whether you are a good candidate for this procedure. Call us at 718-513-9685 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business, license, and website security
- Nostrand Dental was established in 1998.
- We accept the following payment methods: Cash, CareCredit, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Kings County, New York County, Richmond County, Queens County, and Nassau County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, and Long Island
- NY (License #46702). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1457434540). View NPI Registry Information
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Nostrand Dental on mobile
Back to top of When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary
Related Posts
Cosmetic Dental Services When You Have Gaps Between Teeth
Cosmetic dental services, like composite bonding or the placement of restorations, can help fix unnatural gaps between your teeth. Medically termed diastemas, these gaps can impact how your smile looks and the way that you feel about your appearance.A gap between teeth is one of the things that most people notice when you open your…
How Does A Dentist Use Laser Dentistry For Dental Cleaning?
Laser dentistry is a relatively young concept that can target diseased soft tissue and improve the health of gums, jawbone, and more. Dental lasers are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the risks of the procedure are minimal. Subsequently, dentists often recommend laser dentistry for deep dental cleaning procedures. A routine dental cleaning…
Cosmetic Dental Services To Restore The Shape Of Teeth
Cosmetic dental services can be performed to help restore the shape of damaged teeth. Teeth are regularly exposed to bite forces and acids that can break off parts of their structures. They can also be damaged by bad habits like teeth grinding or by getting hit in the face.Damaged teeth can affect the appearance of…
Options For Replacing Missing Teeth With Cosmetic Dental Services
Various cosmetic dental services can be used to replace missing teeth, restoring the appearance of your smile. Most people lose at least one of their teeth at some point in their life, and it needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Bone tissues in the jaw start to break down when they stop getting…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Nostrand Dental on mobile