Why Do I Keep Grinding My Teeth at Night?
Grinding your teeth at night could leave you with pain in your face and jaw in the morning. Read on to find out why you might grind your teeth — and what you can do about it.
Why Would I Need a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is never anyone’s first choice for a dental procedure, but sometimes it’s necessary to preserve your dental health.
During a tooth extraction, your tooth is removed from its socket with specialty tools. This procedure can be performed by a dentist, periodontist, or oral surgeon. Extractions may be done under local or general anesthesia.
At Airport Dental Care, his practice in Austin, Texas, Dr. Brian LaBombard performs tooth extractions regularly. Here are a few common reasons he may recommend that you have a tooth extracted.
Severe tooth decay
When infection develops that reaches the pulp of your tooth, it may cause intense pain and swelling. A root canal can sometimes solve the problem, but in severe cases, the tooth may be so damaged that pulling it is the only option.
Extracting the tooth also keeps infection from spreading.
Impacted teeth
An impacted tooth is blocked from coming out by another tooth or because the gums didn’t fully allow the tooth to erupt. That is usually why wisdom teeth need to be removed.
Extraction may be necessary to lower the risk of infection, prevent overcrowding, and keep the impacted tooth from damaging other teeth.
Periodontal disease
If your periodontal disease (advanced gum infection) has reached the point that it’s affecting the integrity of your jawbone and gums, you may have a tooth that’s starting to become loose.
In such cases, extraction may be the best option to preserve the surrounding teeth and protect your overall dental health.
Overcrowding
If you have too many teeth trying to fit into too small of a space in your mouth, your crowded teeth risk becoming misaligned. Your dentist may recommend an extraction to give your remaining teeth room for correct alignment.
An extraction to solve overcrowding may allow you to enjoy a straight smile without orthodontic treatment.
Injury
Injuries and accidents are a part of life. If a traumatic event damages, chips, or cracks one or more of your teeth, your dentist’s first instinct is to preserve the affected teeth.
However, when a tooth is too damaged to save, an extraction is necessary to prevent infection — damaged teeth are especially susceptible to bacteria — and protect your other teeth and overall oral health.
If you suspect you need a tooth extraction, the team at Airport Dental Care is ready to help. Call our office today or use our online booking tool to schedule your appointment.
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