When you have a dental emergency, the most important thing to do is call your dentist and schedule a visit as soon as possible. In many cases, quick treatment can help you address the problem and save your tooth (or teeth). However, the most important reason for seeking emergency treatment is to avoid more extensive damage to your teeth and oral tissues. To that end, some situations may require your dentist to extract your tooth to stop it from leading to more complicated issues.

When Extraction Is the Right Answer

Fortunately, the need for tooth extraction is rare compared to other restorative treatments. Even teeth with substantial cracks on their crowns can often be fully restored with a custom, lifelike restoration. However, a tooth that has a complex or vertical root fracture, or that is broken in a way that makes it impossible to restore, will have to be removed. Your dentist can recommend the procedure to stop the broken, jagged tooth from becoming more problematic.

Should You Replace the Tooth?

Besides complex tooth damage, there are several other reasons why tooth extraction may be recommended. For instance, if tooth decay destroys the majority of your tooth structure, then root canal treatment might not be able to save it. If a wisdom tooth becomes impacted, then it will have to be extracted to stop it from damaging or pushing against other teeth. With the exception of impacted wisdom teeth, your dentist may recommend replacing the tooth after it’s extracted so that your bite can regain its full function again.

Find Out if Your Emergency Warrants Tooth Extraction

For some types of dental emergencies, tooth extraction must be performed to avoid further damage to surrounding teeth and oral tissues. To learn more, schedule a consultation with your dentist by calling Dr. Newman’s office in Tucson, AZ, today at 520-296-5439. We’re conveniently located inside the Grant Road Professional Plaza, and proudly welcome the residents of all surrounding communities.