7 Signs You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

Did you know that about 26% of American adults suffer from various tooth problems? Dental care is extremely important for your health, but sometimes the signs that you might need a tooth extraction are hard to interpret.

Ignoring your teeth can cause more significant issues. The long-term effects can end up costing you more in dental bills and can be detrimental. Thus, it is essential to make an emergency tooth extraction as the signs arise immediately.

The sooner you can see a dentist for tooth problems, the easier and cheaper it can be to treat them. But what are the signs that you need a tooth extraction anyway?

Keep reading to learn how to spot the signs and prepare for this procedure.

7 Signs You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

Regular checkups with a dentist can help prevent the need for a tooth extraction. However, there are signs that you inevitably need a tooth extracted even if you regularly see a dentist. Some of these signs include:

1. Severe Tooth Pain

Severe tooth pain can be caused by various things, including tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or an abscess. If you have severe tooth pain, you may also experience swelling, redness, and drainage from the affected tooth. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a dentist as soon as possible to determine if you need a tooth extraction.

2. Visible Tooth Decay or Infection

Tooth decay is a form of bacteria that can eat away at your tooth, causing it to become weak and eventually fall out. Infection can also cause your tooth to become abscessed, which can be extremely painful. If you have either of these conditions, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is vital to determine if you need a tooth extraction.

3. A Cracked or Chipped Tooth

You might need a tooth extraction for many reasons, but one of the most common is a cracked or chipped tooth. If you have a crack or chip in your tooth, you must see a dentist immediately.

A crack or chip in your tooth can lead to severe problems, like an infection or damage to your other teeth. If you have a crack or chip in your tooth, the best thing to do is to see a dentist and find out if you need a tooth extraction.

4. Tooth Misalignment

A few things to consider when determining if you need a tooth extraction due to tooth misalignment. If your teeth are significantly crooked or crowded, an extraction may be necessary to create more space.

Sometimes, your jaw may be too small to accommodate all of your teeth. If you have wisdom teeth that are causing pain or crowding other teeth, they may need to be removed. A tooth may need to be extracted if you have suffered an injury to the mouth. To know for sure, consult with an orthodontist or dentist.

5. Impacted Tooth

Impacted teeth are usually caused by overcrowding in the mouth, which can cause the teeth to become misaligned. If your teeth are misaligned, it can be challenging to brush and floss properly, leading to decay and infection.

Impacted teeth can also cause pain and swelling. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see a dentist determine if an extraction is necessary.

6. Inflammed Gums

If your gums are swollen, red, or tender, it could be a sign of gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is usually caused by plaque, a sticky film of food and bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth.

If gingivitis is not treated, it can lead to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis can cause your gums to pull away from your teeth, form deep pockets, and eventually lead to bone loss. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a dentist to determine if you need a wisdom tooth extraction.

7. Pus Production

If your tooth is infected, it will likely produce pus. As the infection worsens, the tooth may darken in color, and the gums may begin to swell.

If you notice any of these signs, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. An infected tooth will not heal on its own and only worsen over time. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other teeth and jawbone.

Aftercare for a Tooth Extraction

A few tooth extraction symptoms can arise, though these are typically rare. One difficulty is that a dry socket can form where the tooth was extracted. This is a painful condition that dentists can treat with a special dressing.

Another complication is an infection, which can occur if the area around the extraction is not kept clean. Symptoms of the disease include pain, swelling, and redness. If you think you have an infection, you should see your dentist or doctor immediately to learn why are tooth extractions necessary to avoid complications.

How to Prepare a Budget for Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions can be costly, especially if you need multiple teeth removed. Budgeting for this expense in advance is essential so you can be prepared.

Find out how much tooth extraction costs for various clinics in your area and get a reasonable quote. This will vary depending on the number of teeth extracted and the extraction’s difficulty.

Set aside money each month to save up for the procedure. Look into dental insurance plans. Some plans will cover the cost of tooth extractions.

Also, talk to your dentist about financing options. Some dental offices offer payment plans that can make the procedure more affordable. You can consider using a credit card with a low-interest rate to finance the procedure.

Improve Your Oral Health By Knowing the Signs to Get a Tooth Extraction

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s best to consult with your dentist to see if a tooth extraction is necessary. Don’t delay in seeking treatment, as this could lead to further complications down the road. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today to get started on the path to good oral health.

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