16
Sep
Tooth Extraction: When It’s Necessary (And When It’s Not)
Ever had a toothache so intense you wished the tooth would disappear? Or maybe your tooth seems so damaged that extraction seems like the easiest option. While no one looks forward to getting a tooth pulled, sometimes it’s the best choice for your health. That said, not every dental problem calls for an extraction. At A Dental & Denture in Seattle, Washington, we help you understand when removing a tooth is necessary— and when it’s better to explore other options.
Why should I preserve my natural teeth, if possible?
Your natural teeth are good at their work, helping you speak, chew, and maintain your jawbone’s strength. Even with advanced teeth replacements like dental implants and bridges, none come close to your natural teeth.
As you know, you only get one set of permanent teeth. Unlike baby teeth, once you lose your adult tooth, it is gone forever. That’s why you must do everything possible to preserve your natural teeth. Luckily, modern dentistry means much higher chances of saving your teeth. But even then, preserving your beloved tooth isn’t always possible.
When do I need dental extraction?
It’s not our wish to remove your tooth, but sometimes, it’s the best way to maintain optimal oral health. Here are specific circumstances in which you may need tooth removal.
- Severe tooth decay: If a tooth is non-restorable with a filling, crown, or root canal, we recommend tooth removal to end pain and protect your oral health.
- Trauma/injury: Your Seattle dentist may recommend dental extraction for a severely fractured or broken tooth.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth or third molars arrive late, during the late teens or early twenties, when most teeth have already erupted. Because of limited space in the jawbone, many wisdom teeth remain impacted (trapped) in the bone. Ingrown wisdom teeth cause pain, swelling, cysts, and damage nearby structures.
- Advanced gum disease: Periodontitis can cause significant damage to the jawbone and gums. In such cases, we recommend removing the tooth to prevent further complications.
- Orthodontic reasons: The dentist may recommend removing an overcrowded tooth to create space for optimal alignment during orthodontic treatment.
When dental extraction is needed, you can trust A Dental & Denture for a gentle and seamless procedure. Our team combines cutting-edge technology and compassionate care to administer dental extractions safely and comfortably.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (206) 445-0030 | Existing Patients: (206) 440-1500
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When is a dental extraction not necessary?
Dental extraction is often presented as a last resort. Dental extraction is never an option when the tooth is resolvable or manageable with less invasive treatment. If decay or damage has destroyed the entire structure, we can save the tooth with a filling, crown, or onlay. Also, a severe infection doesn’t always mean extraction. A root canal can often remove the infection and preserve the natural tooth.
Teeth loosened due to periodontal disease aren’t always hopeless. Deep cleanings, laser therapy, and bone grafting can stabilize and save some teeth.
Do you need tooth removal services in Seattle, WA?
Your natural teeth matter to us, and we work hard to preserve them. When extraction becomes necessary, you can trust it’s a well-considered decision made in your best interest. Do you need tooth removal services in Seattle, Washington? Trust A Dental & Denture for gentle and safe dental extractions. Call (206) 445-0030 to book your visit!
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Angelica P. Summer, DPD, has been a Licensed Denturist in Seattle, Washington, since 1996. She has owned and operated A Dental and Denture in North Seattle since 1999. She completed her education at the University of the East and specializes in creating all types of dentures while you wait. Angelica is an active member of the Washington Denturist Association, National Denturist Association, and International Federation of Denturists.
Fawaz Hatem, BDS, MSD, is an Oral Medicine Specialist with over 20 years of experience. He completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery in Baghdad, Iraq, and obtained a Master’s degree from the UW School of Dentistry and further training from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Dr. Hatem has specialized training in Invisalign orthodontic treatment, sleep dentistry, teeth whitening, and administering Botox and dermal filler injections to enhance facial aesthetics and relieve TMJ symptoms. He is proficient in Arabic and English.
Dental Implant Specialist Kevin La, DDS, received his doctorate from UCLA School of Dentistry and his postgraduate qualification – an AEGD certificate – from the UPenn School of Dental Medicine. He is an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and is now a mentor for Associate Fellow Candidates. He is also a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology and a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/ Implant Dentistry. The latter designation is the highest level of competence in implant dentistry. Dr. La serves as a mentor in study clubs and implant training courses. He is now in the teaching faculty at the Pacific Implant Academy (PIA) and co-director for the PIA Implant Live Surgery Course in Tijuana, Mexico.
All providers have years of experience and expertise in their respective areas and are focused on continuing education to provide the best services for their patients. They aim to bring beautiful, healthy smiles to everyone in Seattle, WA.