At Bow Family Dentistry, located in Bow, NH, we pride ourselves on offering compassionate care to patients in our community, as well as those from nearby areas like Concord and Hooksett. Our top priority is preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are situations where a tooth extraction is necessary to protect your overall oral health. To help you better understand when this might be the case, we’ve outlined five signs that a tooth extraction could be needed.
1. Severe or Persistent Tooth Pain
Tooth pain can be a signal that something is seriously wrong. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain that doesn’t subside, it could indicate an infection, advanced decay, or damage to the tooth that may require an extraction. Dr. Sarah K. Katz and our experienced team can evaluate the situation to determine the best course of action.
2. Overcrowding or Tooth Misalignment
Overcrowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in your mouth for all of your teeth, leading to misaligned bites. This is often the case when wisdom teeth emerge or when preparing for orthodontic treatments like braces. Removing a tooth may be necessary to create space and improve the alignment of your smile.
3. Gum Disease
Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can weaken the tissues and bone that support your teeth. If a tooth becomes loose due to extensive gum disease, extraction may be necessary to prevent further complications and preserve the health of your surrounding teeth and gums.
4. Severe Tooth Infection or Abscess
An untreated tooth infection or abscess can spread to other areas of your mouth and even beyond. While a root canal is often a viable option to save the tooth, there are instances where the infection is too severe and extraction is the best solution to stop the spread and protect your health.
5. Trauma or Structural Damage to the Tooth
Accidents or injuries can cause significant damage to a tooth. When the structural integrity of the tooth is compromised beyond repair, extraction becomes the next step to maintain a healthy mouth and prevent further issues.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction
At Bow Family Dentistry, we understand that the idea of having a tooth removed may feel daunting. That’s why Dr. Sarah K. Katz and our entire team prioritize your comfort throughout the process. Before the extraction, we’ll walk you through what to expect and discuss sedation options to ensure you feel relaxed. After the procedure, we’ll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to promote a speedy and smooth recovery.
When to See Us
If you’re experiencing any of the above warning signs, don’t wait for the issue to worsen. Schedule an appointment with Bow Family Dentistry, either online or by calling our office. Prompt attention can help determine whether an extraction is necessary or if another treatment option is better suited to your needs. Your oral health is our priority!
We proudly serve Bow, NH, as well as the surrounding communities of Concord and Hooksett, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way toward a healthier, happier smile.
