Do I Need an Extraction? Help!

Contemplating the thought that you may need a tooth removed can feel overwhelming at first! While a tooth extraction is always recommended as a last resort, there are certain circumstances in which it is the best option to protect your oral health. Rest assured that your Odessa dentist will be there to guide you not only through the extraction process and recovery, but also to help you with tooth replacement options if necessary.

Why Does My Tooth Need to be Removed?

There are a few different circumstances in which your dentist will recommend a tooth extraction. These are:

• A tooth that has been fractured, cracked, decayed, or traumatized beyond what root canal therapy can treat.
• To eliminate crowding and expedite orthodontic treatment.
• Advanced periodontal (gum) disease.
• Wisdom teeth – or third molars
• A tooth that is impacted (stuck beneath the gum line) or infected

What is the Cost of a Tooth Extraction?

Each patient’s situation varies greatly, and so does the cost of an extraction. Price is based on the complexity of the case, including the number of teeth being removed and which teeth they are. As an example, a back molar is a larger tooth with more roots to remove than a front canine tooth, therefore the cost is higher for a molar.

The good news is that most dental insurance plans allow coverage for extractions and will pay a percentage of the cost. If you are looking at extracting multiple teeth, there are also companies such as CareCredit that help patients break the cost of treatment into affordable monthly payments.

Should I Replace My Tooth?

Unless your tooth is being extracted for orthodontic treatment, or it’s a wisdom tooth, it is a good idea to discuss your replacement options with your dentist. Losing a tooth impacts your daily life when you can’t chew food properly or interact with others comfortably. It also affects your oral health by resulting in shifting teeth and bone loss without a tooth replacement.

Dental implants are the gold standard choice for replacing one or multiple missing teeth because they restore both your root and your tooth. This keeps your bone healthy while restoring the function and aesthetics lost with your tooth.

Don’t let a compromised tooth affect your oral health and your life! Contact your dentist today to learn more about how a tooth extraction can help.

About the Author

For over 40 years, Dr. Franklin Boyles has been serving patients in Texas. Now, his son Dr. Stephen Boyles has joined him in the tradition of providing outstanding service and exceptional dental care to families in Odessa. The two highly skilled dentists offer comprehensive services delivered in a warm and caring setting that patients appreciate.

If you would like to contact Boyles General Dentistry, you can call our office at 432-366-0896 or contact us through our website.