Common Reasons for Tooth Extractions
Many people may first think of the wisdom teeth when they hear the phrase tooth extraction, but there are a number of other reasons that a patient may need to have a tooth removed, as well. For example, a tooth that has been severely damaged by injury may not be salvageable. Similarly, extraction may be indicated in the case of a tooth that has been significantly compromised by extensive decay to the degree that not enough tooth material remains to support a restoration. An oral surgeon may also need to extract a tooth as part of an orthodontic treatment plan. If the patient’s smile is “crowded,” removing a tooth can create the space needed to move the other teeth into their proper positions. Indeed, impacted teeth also may be extracted, and the surgeon may need to remove surrounding bone first in order to access the teeth. Regardless of the issue…