Tooth extractions might sound intimidating, but sometimes they’re the best way to protect your overall oral health. Summit Family Dental in Michigan always tries to save your natural teeth when possible, but when damage, decay, or infection goes too far, an extraction can relieve pain and prevent bigger problems down the road.
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to talk to your dentist about removing a tooth, here are five clear signs to look out for.
1. You Have Severe or Persistent Tooth Pain
Pain that doesn’t go away, especially when chewing, biting, or touching the tooth, often means there’s damage or deep decay. In some cases, root canal therapy can save the tooth. But if the infection is too advanced or the tooth structure is compromised, your dentist may recommend an extraction to prevent the infection from spreading.
When to Call Your Dentist
If your tooth pain is sharp, throbbing, or keeps you up at night, call Summit Family Dental right away. Early treatment can make all the difference between saving or removing a tooth.
2. Your Tooth Is Cracked, Broken, or Severely Damaged
Sometimes a tooth breaks from an injury, a large filling, or biting into something hard. While minor cracks can often be repaired, a severely fractured tooth, especially one that extends below the gumline, may not be restorable.
What Your Dentist Will Check
Summit Family Dental in Shelby Township will take digital X-rays to assess the damage. If your tooth can’t be rebuilt with a crown, extraction may be the safest and most comfortable solution.
3. You Have a Deep Infection or Abscess
An untreated cavity or gum infection can lead to an abscess, a painful pocket of pus caused by bacteria. Abscesses often cause swelling, tenderness, and sometimes fever or jaw pain.
Why Extraction Might Be Needed
If antibiotics or root canal therapy can’t clear the infection, removing the tooth may be necessary to protect your neighboring teeth and gums. Our team provides gentle, precise extractions to eliminate infection and restore comfort.
4. Your Gums Are Receding or Your Teeth Feel Loose
Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can weaken the tissues and bone that support your teeth. When teeth become loose or shift position, it’s a sign that the underlying bone may be severely affected.
Preventing Future Tooth Loss
Your dentist will evaluate your gum and bone health to determine the best approach. If a tooth can’t be stabilized, extraction can stop further damage and make room for restorative options like dental implants or bridges.
5. Your Wisdom Teeth Are Impacted or Causing Crowding
For many patients, wisdom teeth never fully erupt or come in at an angle, pressing against neighboring teeth. This can cause pain, swelling, or bite misalignment.
When Wisdom Teeth Need Removal
If you feel pressure at the back of your mouth, experience jaw discomfort, or notice crowding, Summit Family Dental can evaluate your wisdom teeth with a quick X-ray. Extracting impacted teeth can relieve pain and prevent shifting of your healthy teeth.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction at Summit Family Dental
Our dentists use modern techniques and gentle care to make extractions as comfortable as possible. We’ll numb the area thoroughly, remove the affected tooth safely, and provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal quickly.
Tooth Replacement Options
After healing, you can restore your smile with options such as:
- Dental implants for a long-lasting, natural look
- Dental bridges to fill gaps and restore bite function
- Partial dentures for multiple missing teeth
Your dentist will help you choose the best solution for your needs and budget.
Schedule a Tooth Extraction Consultation With Summit Family Dental in Shelby Township, MI
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or signs of infection, don’t wait; early evaluation can save your smile. Summit Family Dental provides gentle, stress-free extractions and personalized treatment plans to restore your comfort and confidence.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free smile.
