When Do You Need an Emergency Tooth Extraction?

When Do You Need an Emergency Tooth Extraction?

When Do You Need an Emergency Tooth Extraction? 

When Do You Need an Emergency Tooth Extraction at Park Hills Family Dentistry

Tooth pain can disrupt your life in a flash. While some dental problems can wait for a scheduled appointment, others require immediate attention—especially when a tooth needs to be extracted quickly to preserve your health and comfort. But how do you know if you truly need an emergency tooth extraction? At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we’re here to help you understand the signs and know when to take action.

What Is an Emergency Tooth Extraction?

An emergency tooth extraction is the immediate removal of a tooth due to severe damage, decay, infection, or trauma. Unlike routine extractions that are planned, emergencies arise when a tooth poses a serious health risk or causes unmanageable pain. In these cases, delaying treatment can lead to more serious issues such as the spread of infection, jaw damage, or overall health complications.

Signs You May Need an Emergency Extraction

Knowing the warning signs can help you take prompt action and avoid further problems. Here are the most common indicators:

1. Severe Tooth Pain

Persistent, sharp, or throbbing pain that doesn’t subside may signal a serious issue. This type of pain can indicate nerve damage, deep decay, or infection, all of which might require immediate extraction if other treatments are not possible.

2. Swollen Gums or Face

If your gums or face are swollen—especially with signs of redness or warmth—it could mean you have a serious infection like an abscess. In some cases, this infection can spread rapidly, making extraction necessary to remove the source.

3. Loose or Damaged Teeth

If you’ve suffered trauma or a tooth becomes loose due to severe gum disease, the best solution may be to extract it. Teeth that are cracked below the gumline or split into multiple pieces are usually not salvageable.

4. Infection That Won’t Heal

A tooth infection that doesn’t respond to antibiotics or keeps returning could threaten surrounding teeth and bone. In this case, extraction might be the safest route to protect your overall oral health.

5. Advanced Tooth Decay

When decay has completely destroyed a tooth’s structure and it cannot be repaired with a filling or crown, emergency extraction may be necessary.

What to Expect During an Emergency Tooth Extraction

If you’re experiencing one or more of the signs above, schedule an emergency dental appointment immediately. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we prioritize patient comfort and safety—especially in emergency situations.

Here’s what the process generally looks like:

  • Assessment: The dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the severity of the issue.

  • Pain Management: Local anesthesia or sedation will be administered to ensure a pain-free procedure.

  • Extraction: The tooth will be gently removed, and post-extraction care will be explained to promote healing.

  • Aftercare: You’ll be provided with instructions on managing discomfort, preventing infection, and options for replacing the tooth if needed.

Can All Dental Pain Be Resolved Without Extraction?

Not necessarily. While root canals, antibiotics, or other procedures can sometimes save a tooth, extractions are often the safest option when:

  • The infection is too severe.

  • The tooth is fractured beyond repair.

  • The decay has reached the bone.

That’s why it’s essential to see a qualified professional—like the team at Park Hills Family Dentistry—for a proper diagnosis and care plan.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

While not all emergencies are avoidable, good oral hygiene and regular checkups can go a long way in preventing them. Here are a few tips:

  • Brush and floss daily.

  • Visit your dentist every six months.

  • Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports.

  • Avoid chewing hard items like ice or popcorn kernels.

  • Address dental issues early before they escalate.

Trust the Best Dentist in Lexington, KY

If you think you may need an emergency tooth extraction, don’t wait. Quick treatment can relieve your pain and protect your health. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we offer compassionate, expert emergency dental care when you need it most. Our team will evaluate your situation, explain your options, and ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way.

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today to schedule your emergency appointment and get the care you deserve from the best dentist in Lexington, KY.

Recovering from Tooth Extraction

Recovering from Tooth Extraction

Recovering from Tooth Extraction 

Recovering from Tooth Extraction: Aftercare Tips for a Smooth Healing Process

Recovering from a tooth extraction requires careful attention and proper aftercare for a smooth healing process. After having a wisdom tooth or damaged tooth removed, following aftercare tips is essential for minimizing discomfort and reducing complications. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we understand the importance of post-extraction care, and our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive guidance to our patients in Lexington, making us the best dentist in the area for all your dental needs.

After undergoing a tooth extraction procedure, it’s normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding. These are natural responses of the body as it begins the healing process. We’ve compiled aftercare tips to assist you in navigating the recovery phase and promoting optimal healing.

Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions

Your dentist will provide you with specific aftercare instructions tailored to your individual needs. It’s crucial to adhere to these instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. This may include guidance on managing pain, controlling bleeding, and preventing infection. Our experienced team at Park Hills Family Dentistry will provide detailed aftercare instructions and address any questions, ensuring you have the support you need during recovery.

Manage Discomfort with Pain Medication

It’s common to experience some discomfort after a tooth extraction. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain medication or prescribe a suitable pain reliever to help manage any discomfort. It’s important to take the medication as directed to alleviate pain and make your recovery more comfortable.

Apply Ice Packs

Apply an ice pack to the area for 20 minutes at a time, with 20-minute breaks, to reduce swelling and discomfort. This can help minimize swelling and provide relief from any discomfort you may experience.

Monitor and Control Bleeding

After the extraction, it’s normal to experience minor bleeding. Gently biting on a gauze pad placed over the extraction site can help control bleeding. If the bleeding persists, contact your dentist for further guidance.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

While it’s important to avoid disturbing the extraction site, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection. Your dentist may recommend gently rinsing your mouth with salt water to keep the area clean. To prevent dry socket, avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, or using straws to protect the blood clot and promote healing.

Follow a Soft Diet

In the initial days following the extraction, it’s advisable to consume soft foods that require minimal chewing. Avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods that may irritate the extraction site. Opt for nutritious, easy-to-eat foods such as yogurt, smoothies, and mashed potatoes to support your healing process.

Contact Us

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we provide top-quality care, making us the best dentist in Lexington for all your dental needs. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized aftercare guidance for minimal discomfort and optimal healing after tooth extraction. Following our aftercare tips and guidance ensures you receive the best care in Lexington to confidently recover from your procedure. If you have any concerns or questions during your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact our office for assistance. We’re here to support you and make your recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Tooth Extraction When Is It Necessary

Tooth Extraction When Is It Necessary

Tooth Extraction When Is It Necessary 

Tooth Extraction: When Is It Necessary and What to Expect in Lexington

Tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While dentists always strive to save natural teeth, there are situations where tooth extraction becomes necessary. 

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

  1. Severe Tooth Decay: If a tooth extensively decays and cannot be saved with other treatments, a dentist may need to perform an extraction to prevent the spread of infection.

  2. Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can cause the teeth to become loose and unstable. In some cases, extraction may be the best option to remove the affected tooth and prevent further damage.

  3. Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth often lack sufficient space to emerge properly. This can lead to pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. In such cases, dentists commonly recommend extraction.

  4. Overcrowding: In some orthodontic cases, tooth extraction may be necessary to create space for proper alignment of the remaining teeth. This is often performed before orthodontic treatment, such as braces.

  5. Trauma or Injury: If a tooth sustains severe damage, dentists may need to perform an extraction if other treatments are not viable.

What to Expect During Tooth Extraction in Lexington

When you visit Park Hills Family Dentistry for a tooth extraction in Lexington, you can expect the following:

  1. Initial Examination: Our dentist will use X-rays to assess your tooth and surrounding structures.

  2. Anesthesia: Before the extraction, our dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. In some cases, dentists may also use sedation to help patients relax during the procedure.

  3. Extraction: Our dentist will carefully remove the tooth from its socket using specialized dental instruments. In some cases, the dentist may make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth.

  4. Post-Extraction Care: After the extraction, our dentist will give you instructions for caring for the extraction site and managing any pain.

  5. Recovery: The recovery period after a tooth extraction can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual factors. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions for a smooth and speedy recovery.

Best Dentist in Lexington for Tooth Extraction

When it comes to tooth extraction in Lexington, one of the best dentists to consider is Park Hills Family Dentistry. They offer gentle and professional tooth extraction services, prioritizing the preservation of natural teeth whenever possible. Park Hills Family Dentistry provides a caring and comfortable atmosphere for all patients during dental procedures.

Contact Us

Tooth extraction may be necessary due to severe tooth decay, gum disease, impacted wisdom teeth, overcrowding, or trauma.

When getting a tooth extraction in Lexington, choose a reputable dentist for gentle and professional care. Many people highly recommend Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington for their commitment to patient care and preserving natural teeth when possible. For a personalized and friendly dental experience, consider contacting Park Hills Family Dentistry for tooth extraction or other dental services.

Is it time for a tooth extraction?

tooth extraction Lexington KY

Is It Time For A Tooth Extraction? 

Is It Time For A Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extractions are a dental procedure that should be taken seriously. It is a significant decision because the extraction can have long-term implications for your oral health, and it should not be rushed. You should know what signs to look out for so you can make an informed decision when considering a tooth extraction in Lexington KY. Let’s take a closer look at why it may be time for you to schedule an appointment with your Lexington KY dentist.

Reasons To Consider A Tooth Extraction

The most common reason someone needs to consider a tooth extraction is due to excessive decay or infection in the tooth itself. If the decay or infection has gone too far, it cannot be treated with fillings or root canals, and the only way to treat it is by removing the affected tooth entirely. In some cases, extractions may also be necessary if there is overcrowding of teeth in the mouth which can cause misalignment or other issues over time if not corrected. Additionally, wisdom teeth often need to be removed due to their position in the back of the mouth and how they grow in relation to other teeth.

Signs You Need An Extraction

It’s important that you pay attention to any changes that occur with your teeth, as they could indicate that an extraction is needed. Some signs you may need an extraction include pain or sensitivity when chewing food or drinking hot or cold beverages; swelling in the gums around a particular tooth; discoloration of the affected tooth; and persistent bad breath that won’t go away despite brushing and flossing regularly. If you notice any of these signs, then it is best to get checked out by your dentist as soon as possible before any further damage occurs and/or the tooth infection spreads further than just one tooth.

1) Severe Damage or Decay – If you have an especially large cavity or your tooth is cracked beyond repair, it might be time for an extraction. This process helps prevent the decay from spreading and helps protect the surrounding teeth and gums from potential damage.
2) Crowding – If you’re considering braces but find that there just isn’t enough room in your mouth, one of the dental professionals at Advanced Dental Care may recommend extraction as part of the orthodontic treatment plan. Removing one (or more) teeth can help create space for overcrowded teeth to move into their proper position without needing more expensive procedures like surgery.
3) Infection – If a deep cavity or crack has allowed bacteria to enter into your pulp chamber and cause an infection, then a root canal might not work and it could be time for an extraction to get rid of the infected tooth altogether. Additionally, if you have periodontal disease that’s caused severe inflammation and bone deterioration around one of your teeth, then it might need to be extracted in order to stop any further destruction.
4) Impacted Teeth – If you have wisdom teeth that haven’t fully emerged through your gum line yet, they may need to be extracted due to complications such as overcrowding or cysts forming around them in your jawbone. Your Lexington KY Dentist can determine whether it’s safe to leave impacted wisdom teeth where they are or if removing them is in your best interest.

Overall, knowing when it’s time for a tooth extraction is essential for maintaining good oral health over time. While this type of dental procedure should not be taken lightly, there are certain circumstances where extracting a damaged or infected tooth is necessary for preventing further problems from occurring down the line. If you live in Lexington KY and think you may need a tooth extracted, consult your dentist right away so you can make an informed decision about what type of treatment would work best for your unique situation.

Signs to Get Wisdom Teeth Removed

signs to get your wisdom teeth removed

Signs to Get Wisdom Teeth Removed 

What is the purpose of wisdom teeth? Scholars think that wisdom teeth evolved due to consuming raw meats, vegetables, and roots. Some people develop their third set of molars between 17 and 21, sometimes known as the wisdom years. However, they are not always functional and might clutter the mouth or cause future difficulties. Today on the blog, our dentist in Lexington KY shares signs to get wisdom teeth removed. 

Evaluation of Wisdom Teeth in Young Adults

Between the ages of 17 and 21, wisdom teeth typically emerge. Therefore, it is advised that the wisdom teeth be evaluated for the first time between the ages of 16 and 19. Our Lexington KY Dentist explains that the bones in your mouth get more challenging as you age, making them difficult to remove.

Even if the patient is not suffering typical symptoms, some dentists choose to remove wisdom teeth to avoid future issues.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

In certain circumstances, wisdom teeth are “impacted,” meaning they do not have enough room to emerge from the gums and develop correctly.

Impacted wisdom teeth can produce a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Gums that are swollen, tender, or bleeding
  • Jaw ache
  • Jaw Swelling or Tenderness
  • Breathing Problems
  • You’re having trouble opening your mouth.
  • Although affected wisdom teeth may not cause any symptoms in certain circumstances, dentists and oral surgeons may advise removing impacted wisdom teeth to avoid future problems.

Inadequate Development

When wisdom teeth come in, they might take too much space in the mouth. Braces cannot be used to straighten these teeth. Our friends over at Bookcliff Family Dental, dentist in Grand Junction, explain that this technique can be performed to make the teeth fit together when the mouth is overcrowded. The only alternative is for them to be eliminated. Your Lexington dentist can tell you which teeth may need to be removed. They may have to remove all of them or only a few.

There are generally 28 teeth in the mouth before wisdom teeth appear. There will be 32 teeth when the wisdom teeth have grown in. There may not be enough space in everyone’s mouths to accommodate the extra teeth, which can cause pain and discomfort. Wisdom tooth extraction is advised to avoid or remove common symptoms such as:

Irritation and Pain

Wisdom teeth can cause aches and pains as they grow in. If you are in pain or discomfort, see your dentist near me for an examination and x-rays. They can tell if the discomfort is caused by the wisdom teeth or anything else. Extraction is not always the best option, as determined by your dentist. The pain may subside with time, and no extraction will be necessary.

Eating Difficulties

If you suffer pain when eating, this might be a sign that your wisdom teeth need to be removed. Food might become lodged between the gums and the crowns of the teeth. This might lead to many issues if you can’t get to the back of your mouth and clean thoroughly while brushing. The most straightforward approach to deal with this issue is to consult with a dentist to locate the right things to solve it. If the problem cannot be resolved, an extraction may be the only option.

A Cyst Around the Tooth

A cyst is formed when a sac adjacent to the teeth fills with fluid. It can harm bones, roots, and adjacent structures if left untreated. If it grows exceptionally severe, it might develop into a tumor and necessitate further surgery.

Teeth Are Not Perfectly Straight

If the wisdom teeth come in incorrectly, the other teeth may shift and migrate over. They may potentially cause harm to the other teeth. Extraction can save other teeth from becoming damaged. There are several ideas as to why wisdom teeth emerge crooked and sideways. Our jaws are supposed to be too small to accommodate a third molar, which then knocks against the others, forcing it to develop sideways. You might also consider removing wisdom teeth before starting orthodontic treatment to give more room to adjust misalignments.

Sinus Problems

Wisdom teeth can cause several sinus issues. These issues emerge as teeth on the upper jaw grow in. When teeth grow and roots form, they can push and rub against the sinuses, causing pressure to build up. Even though this is not a common occurrence, wisdom teeth can occasionally cause sinus discomfort, anxiety, headaches, and congestion.

Cavities

The placement of wisdom teeth can significantly influence cleaning surfaces where germs can lurk. For example, if the gums get inflamed, spaces between the teeth can form, allowing germs to proliferate. This will then stimulate the formation of cavities, which will lead to infection.

Gum Inflammation

When wisdom teeth emerge, they might cause a flap of gum tissue to form close to the tooth. This gum tissue can capture microscopic particles of food and microorganisms. As a result, the tissue surrounding the teeth might become stiff and irritated, making cleaning difficult. This is known as pericoronitis, and it can also happen around wisdom teeth that are still beneath your gums.

Is it necessary to remove wisdom teeth?

Some people have their wisdom teeth for the rest of their life. It is not advised to remove any teeth since there is a risk of the teeth moving. You should not be concerned about getting them removed if they are not giving you any trouble. If they must be extracted, they may have to be extracted two at a time (all of the top teeth or all of the bottom teeth), or they may have to be out all at once. This is the preferred choice to avoid having to schedule a second visit.

Whatever the state of your teeth, seeing your dentist regularly can help you avoid uncomfortable situations in the future. Maintaining a good dental regimen, as well as a balanced diet, will keep your mouth healthy and pain-free. In addition, brushing, flossing, and using a decent mouthwash regularly will maintain your smile free of illness and discomfort. Most essential, make sure you follow your dentist’s instructions.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

impacted wisdom teeth - Lexington Ky

Impacted Wisdom Teeth 

What to Know About Impacted Wisdom Teeth

If there’s any dental problem you should try to avoid, it’s impacted wisdom teeth. Most people have an extra set of molars, also known as wisdom teeth, that come in during your early years as an adult. Some may need to have their wisdom teeth removed sooner. There’s not much you can do about your wisdom teeth coming in incorrectly. However, there are a few options your dentist in Lexington, KY, will recommend after coming in for an evaluation. In this article, we discuss what to know about impacted wisdom teeth. 

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth will require enough room for them to come in without a problem. When there’s not enough room, they become impacted. Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to emerge and typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. They are no longer necessary because our diet now comprises softer foods, and we have the ability to cut food into little pieces that we can easily chew. 

Wisdom teeth frequently fail to develop in normal alignment or fail to emerge all the way through the gum line. This results in impacted wisdom teeth that become wedged between the gums and jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth can be quite uncomfortable. If you suspect that your wisdom teeth are coming in, contact our dental office to set up a tooth extraction consultation. 

Symptoms 

Those who have enough room for their wisdom teeth don’t have to get them removed. There are a few symptoms or signs that your wisdom teeth are coming in. Dr. Jinyoung Kim recommends keeping an eye out for these signs:

Swelling and Infection

With impacted wisdom teeth, there is often severe swelling, pain, and infection. The best dentists in Lexington, KY, will tell you that the problem should not be ignored. Furthermore, because impacted wisdom teeth can cause harm to neighboring gums, teeth, and bones, many dentists will suggest tooth extractions. Impacted wisdom teeth are more difficult to remove, put you at a higher risk of surgical complications, and can permanently harm bones and other teeth. Furthermore, the longer wisdom teeth pain persists, the more likely an infection may occur as a result of germs accessing open tissue.Dr. Boals, Colorado Springs dentist, adds that oral infections can have an adverse effect on overall systemic health.

Pain

Pain might be a sign of impacted wisdom teeth, which arise when the jaw bone or other teeth block wisdom teeth from emerging. Jaw pain and tenderness, redness and swelling of the gums around the tooth, foul breath, or a bad taste when you bite down on food are all signs that your wisdom teeth are impacted. Wisdom teeth that have become impacted can also put you at risk for cysts, which are pockets of fluid that grow around the tooth. 

Tumors can grow around the teeth in rare cases. Our friend Dr. Chris Green, a sedation dentist in Parker, CO, says that cysts and tumors can cause lasting harm to your jaw bone and other teeth. Wisdom tooth discomfort is not always a symptom that your wisdom teeth are impacted, but the longer you wait to see a dentist, the more likely your wisdom teeth will become affected.

Treatment

Tooth extraction can be performed in either a dentist’s or an oral surgeon’s office. To help you prevent discomfort during the treatment, either local or general anesthetic can be administered. To remove the impacted tooth, follow these steps:

  1. An incision is made in your gums to access the affected teeth and jawbone. After the teeth are pulled, the incision may require stitches to seal.
  2. To limit bleeding and aid healing, the socket where your teeth were extracted will be wrapped with gauze.
  3. Following the removal of your wisdom teeth, your dental expert or oral surgeon should provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth. Follow their advice to ensure a quick recovery.

Contact Your Lexington KY Dentist

Take action as soon as possible, whether you choose a conservative or surgical strategy to treating your wisdom teeth infection. If you ignore the symptoms of wisdom tooth infection, the situation will most certainly worsen. Furthermore, the older you get, the more difficult an extraction treatment can be. So, if you have an infection, don’t put it off—contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today.

Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips

tooth-extraction-recovery-tips-lexington-ky

Tooth Extraction Recovery 

What to Expect for Tooth Extraction Recovery

Having a general idea of what to expect helps alleviate a lot of the worry that might accompany post-operative care. Below is what you can expect post tooth extraction.

Swelling

Pain and swelling around your eyes, cheekbones, and jaw are common the day following surgery. Dr. Kim recommends applying an ice pack every twenty minutes. After twenty minutes, then remove the ice pack for twenty minutes. Keep this on rotation for a few days, several times a day. Our friend Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, says that after 48 hours, ice therapy is no longer helpful. Therefore, you should transition to utilizing a heat pack to alleviate pain and swelling instead.

Bleeding

You should also expect some bleeding during the first few hours after having your wisdom teeth removed. Beginning 2 to 3 hours after your procedure, change the gauze at the surgery site every 30-60 minutes to help control bleeding. Biting down firmly on the gauze will also assist in limiting bleeding as well. Continue with this treatment until the bleeding has stopped completely. It is recommended that you contact Park Hills Family Dental team for treatment guidelines if the bleeding does not stop or worsens.

Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips: Dos

In most cases, it will take between two and four weeks for the socket (surgical site) to recover completely. Here are some crucial things you may do to aid in the progression of this process:

Keep Your Mouth Clean

It is acceptable to properly brush your teeth the night before your surgery. Dr. Kim says you should wait until the following day to rinse your mouth. From then on, gently rinse your mouth with a cup (8oz) of warm water combined with a teaspoon of salt at least 5 to 6 times a day, especially after meals, using this method.

Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations

Follow your instructions recommended by your dentist in Lexington, KY, for taking any pain relievers prescribed to you to control discomfort and keep you comfortable. Also, if your dentist has recommended antibiotics, make sure to follow the instructions for taking them exactly as advised.

Rest

It is critical to avoid any physical exertion for the first 24 hours following wisdom teeth extraction. Maintain a comfortable pillow position for resting your head and avoid sleeping on the same side of your body as your extraction.

Watch What You Eat

Smoothies, ice cream, yogurt, and pudding are good choices for the first few days because they are soft and slightly chilled. After the first few days, you can gradually transition from liquids to semi-solids, such as warm soup, and then to solids. 

Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips: Don’ts

Assuming that you have followed Dr. Kim’s recommendations, there are a few things that you should not do.

Straws 

It’s critical not to disturb the blood clot that has formed in the socket, or you could develop a condition known as dry socket, which is painful. During the first 24 hours, refrain from rinsing your mouth excessively, sucking on a straw, or sipping on fizzy beverages.

Smoking

Smoking, in general, is horrible for your health. Patients who use tobacco products need to reframe for at least 48 hours post-tooth extraction. Otherwise, you could experience serious consequences. Alcohol should also be avoided. 

Blowing Your Nose

It can be difficult to refrain from blowing your nose post tooth extraction. During the first 14 days, you should only softly wipe your nose rather than blowing it. You could cause some problems with your surgical extraction area.

Eating Hard Foods

Foods that are difficult to chew should be avoided after an extraction because they might cause damage to delicate tissues. Cereals, nuts, and popcorn are examples of foods that are tough to chew after an extraction. Wait a week or so before re-introducing them to your meal plan.

Following these simple tooth extraction recovery tips should help you return back to normal. If you’re experiencing any trouble post-tooth extraction, give our dental office in Lexington, KY, a call. 

Signs You Need a Tooth Extraction

tooth extraction Lexington kentucky

Signs You Need a Tooth Extraction

Signs You Need a Tooth Extraction

Are you experiencing dental problems or discomfort? Thinking that you may be in need of tooth extraction? Although a tooth extraction can seem scary, it may be the best option for your smile. When other dental treatments are ruled out, dental extraction is typically the best bet. Extraction is only done in rare situations, but it is a necessary procedure from time to time. So, how do you know if it’s time for a tooth extraction? Below, Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, shares five signs you need a tooth extraction.

Misplaced Teeth

One of the top indicators that you will need dental extraction is missing teeth. Teeth begin to shift, which causes overcrowding or impaction. The effect happens when your tooth is misplaced and has changed slightly, or has evolved in the wrong direction, and is now in a position it shouldn’t be. The location of the tooth may not be as it should be and maybe useless to you in its current position.

Overcrowding, on the other hand, is when your teeth are crowded in one place. There are so many teeth coming together during crowding, and there is not enough space for all of them to fit together correctly.

Although these two conditions can differ slightly, both problems can be solved with a simple tooth extraction. It’s best that you visit your dentist in Lexington, KY, for a tooth extraction consultation. 

Extensive Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is usually a result of poor oral hygiene, poor diet, and plaque build-up. Tooth decay is a major concern, and if left unchecked, it can progress into serious dental problems. For instance, you may experience damaged or cracked teeth and tooth loss. 

Fortunately, tooth decay is preventable. If you can detect tooth decay early, you may be able to reverse it. However, if you have severe tooth decay, your tooth may not be worth saving. Therefore, a tooth extraction might be the only option. Be sure to consult with a Lexington, KY dentist to find out what the best course of action is for you.

Tooth Infection

When tooth decay progresses due to lack of treatment, it is likely that an infection will form. Once a tooth infection has reached the pulp of the tooth, it can cause significant damage to the teeth and gums. Unfortunately, the infection will not go away on its own and can even spread throughout the body. Infections are dangerous and must not be overlooked. 

It is necessary to speak to an emergency dentist in Lexington, KY, as soon as the tooth decay or infection starts. Although the infection can lead to an extraction, the risk of infection can often involve an extraction as well as a preventive measure. 

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is another common cause of why a tooth will need to be removed. The disease is an infection that may affect the gums, teeth, and other underlying tissues and structures. Serious periodontal disease can lead to damage to the alveolar bone and periodontal ligaments. It may also contribute to an increase in the rate of tooth decay.

Periodontal disease is reversible if caught in its early stages. So, there may not be a need for tooth extraction. Your dentist may recommend root scaling, dental sealants, cavities, dental crowns, and other treatments to stop your periodontal disease from progressing. Dr. Ben Kacos, an emergency dentist in Shreveport, LA, agrees that a tooth extraction can help prevent further harm from happening and is, in many cases, the only solution available.

Tooth Pain or Tooth Loss

Apart from damage associated with tooth decay, gum disease, and positioning problems, there are other causes of tooth pain or tooth loss. Any harm that has occurred as a result of a car accident or other serious injury will also need a special remedy. Although solutions can differ greatly, serious damage may often lead to the need for a tooth to be fully removed. If you have very serious tooth pain or trauma, you may need a tooth extraction and dental implant.

Visit Your Emergency Dentist in Lexington, KY

Now that you have a brief understanding of the signs of a tooth extraction, you can decide if you need to see a professional about your dental problems. You can always visit our dental office in Lexington, KY, for a consultation. We will see you for a full-mouth evaluation and recommend the best treatment for your needs. In need of quality dental care? Please contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today.