It may come as a surprise that sometimes, a tooth needs to be removed even if it appears healthy. A tooth might not have decay, fillings, or any visible damage from injury yet still require extraction. The reason for its removal may not be related to the health of the tooth itself but rather to the state of the tissues supporting it. The original article presents this as a possible situation where a dentist might determine that a tooth is non-restorable and needs to be extracted, especially when gum disease is involved.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding your teeth. It typically begins with plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—accumulating on your teeth and gums. If not removed through proper oral hygiene practices and professional cleanings, this accumulated plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gum inflammation or gingivitis. While it's possible to reverse the early stages of gingivitis without causing tissue damage, the situation becomes more complicated when the disease progresses.
As untreated and unresolved gingivitis advances, the associated inflammation and infection worsen, leading to damage in the connective tissues and bone supporting your teeth. These supportive structures weaken without therapeutic intervention, making them prone to further damage and potential tooth loss. This gradual process is often painless in its early stages, earning gum disease a reputation as a silent threat to oral health.
While our dental practice strives to preserve every natural tooth and prevent further damage, there may be instances when extraction becomes necessary. When making this decision, we consider factors such as tooth mobility, the severity of attachment loss, radiographic bone loss greater than 50%, and other contributing factors.
Tooth extraction due to advanced periodontal disease can provide a chance for stopping the infection, allowing tissues to heal, and restoring overall oral health. Furthermore, with growing research showing an increasing link between gum disease and overall well-being, it's essential to address your periodontal health.
At the office of Pinnacle Dental Group, we provide gentle care and partner with every patient to maintain optimal oral health that supports overall wellness. If you need a tooth removed due to periodontal disease or another issue, you can rely on our skilled treatment to help restore your periodontal health and rebuild a complete and beautiful smile.
Take the first step towards better oral health by scheduling an appointment with us today. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care that meets your unique needs. With our expertise in tooth extraction procedures related to gum disease, you can trust that your oral health is in capable hands.
