Tooth extractions or removals are a standard dental practice. Though dentists always aim to save a damaged tooth, an extraction might be the best solution to address problems like severe tooth decay, large cavities, overcrowded teeth, and impacted wisdom teeth. Oral trauma or injuries to the jawbone can also require tooth removal for recovery. If you're nervous about getting a tooth removed, here are some reasons not to delay the treatment. 

3 Reasons Not to Wait Too Long to Get a Tooth Extraction

1. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay might not seem like a big problem. However, it can cause serious health complications if you don't keep it in check. Your mouth contains bacteria to help break down food, but decay can cause your mouth to accumulate bacteria, which can cause infections. Bacterial infections can lead to abscesses around your teeth, causing painful swelling around the affected area and your jaw, ear, and neck. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other parts of your body and create a medical emergency. If you have a badly decayed tooth, removing it and reducing the risk of infection is best. 

2. Pain

People often need to remove wisdom teeth if they become impacted. The impaction comes from the teeth not having enough room along the jaw to erupt from the gums correctly. Instead of emerging straight up or down, they come through sideways, pushing against existing molars. The pain and pressure from a wisdom tooth extraction can be enough to distract you from your daily activities. An abscess could form around the tooth in severe situations, creating more pain. Since the area is hard to reach, cleaning around a wisdom tooth is tricky and becomes the perfect location for bacteria to hide. The best long-term solution against wisdom tooth pain is to remove them. 

3. Recovery Time

The longer you postpone a trip to the dentist for tooth extraction, the longer your damaged tooth will remain in your mouth. This is a problem for teeth that are damaged or decayed enough to warrant extraction. By avoiding the dentist, you continue to use that tooth as you eat, talk, and bite, which can further damage the affected area. It's best to remove the tooth sooner than later to avoid unnecessary complications and oral health problems. 

The Montana Center for Laser Dentistry PLLC has a team of compassionate, well-trained dentists who routinely perform tooth extractions for various reasons. However, you can receive many comprehensive dental services at their Kalispell and Whitefish, MT, locations beyond tooth extractions, including dental implants, oral exams, and teeth whitening using the KöR Whitening procedure. Their team of dentists, dental hygienists, and support staff fosters an anxiety-free atmosphere for family, cosmetic, and general dentistry. Schedule an appointment by calling (406) 862-1010 or visiting them online.