3 Reasons You May Need a Tooth Extracted

Tooth extractions aren’t always the first step, but in some cases, they’re the smartest one. Removing a problematic tooth due to trauma, infection, or overcrowding can protect your long-term dental health and reduce your risk for complications.

At our Santa Monica, California, practice, Jason Ray, DDS, prioritizes preserving natural teeth whenever possible. But when extraction is necessary, we take a thoughtful, patient-centered approach focused on comfort and long-term benefits. 

Why you may need to have a tooth removed

Here’s a closer look at the situations that might call for a tooth to be removed.

Advanced structural damage

Your tooth enamel is strong, but it isn’t indestructible. A traumatic injury, biting down on something hard, or untreated decay can all lead to fractures or cracks that compromise the tooth’s integrity. 

Removal is frequently the best course of action when a tooth is split or the damage reaches the root.

Extraction in these situations avoids worsening discomfort, possible infection, and other issues with the surrounding teeth or gums. We may recommend tooth removal as a proactive step to preserve your overall oral health.

Extensive decay or infection

Even with diligent oral hygiene, decay can develop and progress. Early treatment with fillings or crowns often helps, but when cavities go untreated or gum disease becomes severe, the damage may reach a point where saving the tooth is no longer possible.

Root canals and periodontal therapy are valuable tools in fighting infection. But if decay reaches deep into the pulp or spreads into the surrounding bone, extraction may be the safest option to stop the infection from spreading further and causing systemic issues.

Problematic impaction

Wisdom teeth are the most common culprits when it comes to dental impaction. These third molars often lack enough space to erupt properly, causing them to grow at an angle or remain trapped below the gumline. 

Infection, swelling, jaw pain, and misalignment of nearby teeth are all consequences of impacted teeth.

We often recommend extracting impacted wisdom teeth early, especially in teens and young adults. Removing them reduces your risk of future complications and simplifies recovery.

What happens after a tooth extraction

After your dental extraction, we provide clear aftercare instructions to support healing and minimize discomfort. We also discuss tooth replacement options, such as dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures, to restore both function and aesthetics.

Each patient’s situation is unique, and we’re here to help you make informed decisions. From managing discomfort to planning next steps, Dr. Ray and our team take care to ensure you feel supported.

Don’t wait if you’ve been told you need an extraction or if you’re experiencing pain and unsure what’s next. Contact our Santa Monica, California, practice to schedule your consultation and find out what’s best for your smile.