The Pros and Cons of Tooth Extraction

Wondering whether you will need to have a tooth removed? Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of tooth extraction. Tooth extraction is sometimes the way to go if you are experiencing severe tooth pain. Although the procedure can be inevitable, a dentist will usually explore possible ways to save the tooth first before recommending extraction.

The pros of tooth extraction

First up on a patient's list of aspects to consider before electing for tooth extraction are the following benefits:

Smile improvement

Some people have crowded teeth, which makes their smiles look unattractive. Having a tooth or teeth removed allows the remaining teeth to be better aligned, improving your smile and allowing the teeth to function properly when biting and chewing.

Future issues can be avoided

When the dentist examines the affected tooth and determines that it is likely to cause more problems in the future, they will suggest a tooth extraction. By extracting a tooth with a bad prognosis, patients can save the costs and hassles that would have occurred in the coming months if they had kept the tooth. The removal of wisdom teeth is an example of a treatment that prevents potential dental issues.

Efficiency in terms of cost

In most cases, extracting a problematic tooth is less expensive than saving it. For instance, a tooth extraction often costs more than a root canal. Keep in mind that having a root canal does not guarantee that there will never be another problem with that tooth.

More choices

When patients have a tooth removed, they have more choices on what to do with the remaining socket. They might opt for an implant-supported replacement, a dental bridge, or a partial denture, for example.

The cons of tooth extraction

Considering the negative aspects of tooth extraction is important in order to make a balanced decision. The following are some cons associated with the procedure.

Negative effects on neighboring teeth

Tooth extraction, particularly through surgical means, has a high risk of adversely affecting nearby teeth. The tools used for tooth extraction, for example, can chip nearby teeth. The jawbone that supports the nearby teeth can be affected as well, causing the underlying teeth to loosen over time. The dentist will do their best to reduce the chances of complications, but the risks are still there.

Replacement costs are high

Patients could also have to pay a lot of money for the tooth replacements, depending on their choice. Partial dentures, for example, are unlikely to last the rest of your life and would need to be replaced regularly. Dental implants often cost more than other options, as well.

Saving the tooth

The dentist may recommend alternatives to save the tooth after performing an assessment. They may recommend a root canal to remove the infection in the tooth and cover it with a dental crown. Gum disease treatment and apicoectomy are other options to consider. When the tooth is severely damaged and cannot be saved, tooth extraction is inevitable.

The bottom line

Reviewing the above pros and cons may help you with your decision on whether to undergo a tooth extraction. If you have any other questions on the process, please contact our dental office to find out about the various options available to you before deciding to remove the tooth.

Request an appointment here: https://www.millarfamilydentistry.com or call Millar Family Dentistry at (817) 885-5214 for an appointment in our Weatherford office.

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