21/12/2025
While we always prefer to save a natural tooth whenever possible, there are several situations where an extraction becomes the most effective or only option for your health.
Generally, a tooth must be extracted when it is damaged beyond repair or is causing harm to the rest of your mouth.
1. Severe Damage or Decay
Deep Decay: If a cavity is so large that there isn't enough healthy tooth structure left to hold a filling or a crown.
Vertical Fractures: When a tooth cracks vertically or deep below the gum line, it often cannot be saved because the root is compromised.
Failed Root Canal: Sometimes an infection returns after a root canal, and if it cannot be treated again, extraction is necessary to stop the infection from spreading.
2. Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Gum disease can destroy the bone and ligaments that hold your teeth in place. If a tooth becomes very loose due to significant bone loss, it may need to be removed because it no longer has a stable foundation.
3. Impacted Teeth (Commonly Wisdom Teeth)
Teeth are "impacted" when they are blocked from coming through the gums, often because there isn't enough room. This is most common with wisdom teeth, which can cause:
Pain and swelling.
Cysts or damage to neighboring teeth.
Infection in the surrounding gum tissue.
4. Overcrowding and Orthodontics
In some cases, a healthy tooth is extracted to create space.
Braces: An orthodontist may recommend removing one or two teeth to allow the rest of the teeth to align properly.
Supernumerary Teeth: These are "extra" teeth that grow in and block other teeth from coming in correctly.
5. Risk of Infection
If you have a weakened immune system (for example, due to chemotherapy or an organ transplant), even the risk of a tooth infection can be dangerous. In these cases, a dentist may extract a problematic tooth to prevent a more serious systemic infection.
