When a Dental Emergency May Require Tooth Extractions

Tooth Extraction Brevard, NC

This article discusses when a dentist may recommend tooth extractions after an accident occurs. Tooth extractions may be necessary after a dental emergency if teeth are damaged beyond what dental restorations can address or if the teeth cannot be repositioned in their sockets properly.

When might tooth extractions be recommended?

A dental emergency can happen at the most unexpected times. It is important to seek prompt care for a dental emergency, such as dental trauma after a nasty fall or sporting accident. The following are times when tooth extractions may be recommended after a dental emergency occurs:

A tooth that cannot be properly repositioned in the socket

One of the most common reasons for tooth extraction after dental emergencies is that the tooth is knocked loose in the socket. In many cases when prompt care is provided, the dentist can reposition and stabilize a tooth that is knocked loose. However, this is not always possible, and there are times when it may be best to remove the tooth and replace it.

A chip or crack that is beyond restoration

Chips and cracks are the most common types of injuries to teeth as a result of dental trauma. In many cases, chips and cracks can be repaired with a dental crown, veneer, or another dental restoration. However, if a chip or crack extends toward the tooth’s root and the tooth is severely damaged, tooth extraction may be necessary.

A tooth has experienced severe tooth decay

Deep tooth decay can lead to severe symptoms that can turn into a dental emergency. If deep tooth decay compromises the tooth to the extent that it cannot be repaired by a filling or root canal, tooth extraction is the recommended option. A dentist can examine the severity of the decay and make a recommendation during the visit.

A tooth is severely infected beyond what a root canal can treat

A common reason for tooth extractions is severely infected teeth. A tooth infection can develop when bacteria invade the tooth’s root. This can also lead to a dental abscess. In many cases, root canal therapy can be performed to access the tooth’s root, remove the infected portion of the tooth, and fill the tooth. However, for severe infections, tooth extraction is the recommended solution.

The supporting structures of teeth are severely weakened

Gum disease is a common reason for tooth extractions. Gum disease severely weakens the gums and jawbone that support the teeth, leading to the teeth becoming loose. In many cases, particularly those in which the gums and jawbone cannot be restored, tooth extractions are the recommended solution, followed by the replacement of the extracted teeth.

FAQs about dental emergencies and tooth extractions

For more information, the following are three common questions that patients ask in regard to the extraction of a decayed, infected, and/or damaged tooth.

What do I do if my tooth is knocked out entirely?

In some cases, a knocked-out tooth can be repositioned and restabilized in the socket, particularly when the tooth is properly preserved and immediate action is taken by the patient. If the tooth cannot be saved, then the tooth replacement process can begin during the dental emergency visit.

Are extractions painful?

One of the biggest concerns that patients have is a painful tooth extraction experience. Many patients, unfortunately, do feel some discomfort during the extraction procedure. However, the dentist can help minimize the amount of discomfort through the use of a local anesthetic. Pain (and some minor swelling) may continue for 24 to 72 hours after the procedure. Patients can manage the pain and swelling they experience through over-the-counter pain relievers and at-home remedies (e.g., using a cold compress).

What are the risks of not having a damaged or infected tooth extracted?

Most dentists only recommend tooth extraction when saving the tooth is no longer an option. Although pulling the tooth can cause some discomfort, the discomforting symptoms related to decay, infection, and dental trauma are usually more severe and prolonged. Ultimately, the tooth is likely to fall out only after discomforting symptoms worsen and become severe and close to intolerable.

Get in touch with our office after a dental emergency

Our dental team can promptly treat dental trauma to limit the damage and minimize the invasiveness of treatment. When necessary, we can also perform tooth extractions followed by tooth replacement. Contact us today to schedule a visit for dental emergency treatment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.carolinasmilesdentist.com or call Carolina Smiles Family Dental at (828) 974-3326 for an appointment in our Brevard office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Extraction in Brevard, NC.

Recent Posts

Tooth Extraction Is A Common General Dentistry Procedure

Of the many services dentists provide, tooth extraction is among the most frequent. There are various reasons why this treatment may be necessary. Though it can be difficult to have missing teeth, removing one can be beneficial for some conditions. If your dentist has recommended that you undergo this procedure, it is helpful to first…

Why Would Someone Need A Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is often required for several reasons, but the primary deciding factor is that the teeth can no longer fit to stay in that position. Everyone grows permanent teeth throughout life.Although permanent teeth are built to survive a lifetime, they may need to be removed due to the following reasons:Once tooth decay reaches the…

Candy Is Delicious But Can Cause Dental Issues

While tooth extraction is not our first option for treating infected teeth, it may become necessary in certain situations. Regardless, we will numb the area around the tooth so you will not feel any pain.Tooth ExtractionAt Carolina Smiles Family Dental in Brevard, we work to customize your treatment to match your needs and schedule where…

Who Needs A Wisdom Tooth Extraction

The idea of getting a wisdom tooth extraction is something that can spark fear in people because it does involve the removal of very embedded teeth; however, modern technology has made the procedure less painful. Additionally, the in-depth training that general dentists undergo ensures that the process will be efficient and quick.For the most part,…

Recent Posts

How Do I Know If I’m A Good Candidate For Dental Bonding?

How Do I Know If I’m A Good Candidate For Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a process that restores the functionality and attractiveness of a patient’s smile by applying a natural-looking substance to a tooth. Patients with cracks, decayed, chipped, or cracked teeth may benefit from the long-lasting composite material that is put on their teeth. The interesting part of dental bonding is that it needs little…

How Durable Is Dental Bonding?

How Durable Is Dental Bonding?

Your dentist might recommend dental bonding if you are unhappy with your smile. This article explains how long this restoration will last and what influences its lifespan. Whether you have had a tooth gap for years or have recently chipped a front tooth, even a little mistake will make you hesitate before smiling. However, before…