Do I Need an Extraction?

If you have ever had a toothache keep you awake at night, you know the pain can be unbearable. If you’re like many people, you might think an occasional toothache is normal, especially if the pain dissipates after a couple of days. Unfortunately, the discomfort is likely to reoccur because the underlying issue hasn’t been addressed. If you have a problematic tooth giving you grief, you might believe extracting it will eliminate the problem, but is this really the best option? Your dentist can stop your pain and save your tooth with an effective treatment plan.

Why Do I Have a Toothache?

Although many people aren’t concerned by a sporadic toothache, it’s never a good sign. There are several reasons it can occur, such as from weakened enamel, tooth decay, or a small fracture. If any of these issues aren’t treated while they are still small, they will continue to wreak havoc on your oral health.

Eventually, an infection can occur deep within your tooth, called the pulp. This can lead to excruciating discomfort. To stop your pain, extracting your tooth may seem like the simple and effective option, but this isn’t the best choice for your dental health.

Why Shouldn’t I Extract a Tooth?

Your dentist will do everything they can to save your tooth because each one is essential for a healthy smile. When even one tooth is missing, your jawbone will slowly deteriorate. As you lose more bone, your remaining teeth won’t have the support they need. They will drift out of alignment, increasing your risk of several new issues, like cavities, gum disease, and additional tooth loss. Not to mention, you’ll need to permanently invest in a dental prosthetic to fill the empty space.

How Can My Dentist Save My Tooth?

Often, an infected tooth can be saved with a root canal. The endodontic procedure extracts the pulp, stopping the infection and your pain. Your tooth is sterilized before being sealed with a special material called gutta-percha. Now that the health of your tooth has been restored, it’s time to promote its appearance and function.

Your dentist will place a custom-made dental crown over it. This provides an added layer of protection while also improving its integrity to withstand the pressure of chewing. Now, all-ceramic material is used to create a natural-looking restoration, so you won’t need to worry about a dark crown causing an eyesore when you smile.

Stop Your Pain and Save Your Tooth

Your dentist will do everything they can to stop your discomfort and rehabilitate your smile. If there aren’t any other options to save your tooth, they will discuss your replacement options, like a dental implant. You don’t need to spend another night in pain. Contact your dentist for a root canal.

About Dr. Makadia

Dr. Makadia provides high-quality dental care to ensure your teeth last for a lifetime. If a tooth is damaged, he uses the latest innovations in dentistry to prevent an extraction. If you need a root canal, he can help. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.