Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a tooth just has to go. In general dentistry, saving your natural teeth is always the goal. But there are times when it’s better to remove teeth for your health and comfort.
Ignoring dental problems can lead to bigger issues. So, if you’re dealing with dental pain, loose teeth, or oral infections, it’s time to contact Dr. Thomas W. Wegner at Town and Country Dental of Oak Park, IL. Call us at (708) 383-0330 to get the care you deserve now.
1. Persistent Pain That Won’t Quit
Is that toothache keeping you up at night? Persistent tooth pain is a huge red flag. It could mean serious decay, an infection, or damage beyond repair. When the pain doesn’t go away, it may be time to remove teeth and relieve your discomfort.
2. Severe Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is no joke! When a cavity is too deep, it can damage the tooth beyond saving. If fillings, crowns, or root canals can’t fix the problem, our Oak Park dentist may suggest removing teeth to protect the rest of your mouth.
3. Gum Disease Gone Too Far
Advanced gum disease weakens the ligaments and bones that hold your teeth in place. So, when teeth become wobbly due to severe gum damage, they might need to be removed. Plus, removing teeth affected by gum disease can stop the infection from spreading to other areas of your body (a deadly condition called ‘dental sepsis’).
4. Teeth Crowding the Party
Sometimes, there’s just not enough room in your mouth. Crowded teeth can cause pain, alignment problems, and difficulty conducting oral hygiene. In some cases, Dr. Wegner may recommend a tooth extraction to make space for orthodontic treatments.
5. Damage Beyond Repair
If a tooth is broken or cracked beyond what a crown or filling can fix, it may need to go. Removing teeth that can’t be repaired prevents future pain and infection.
6. Wisdom Teeth Woes
Wisdom teeth are famous for causing trouble. If they’re stuck (impacted), causing pain, or damaging other teeth, it’s usually best to remove these molars before things get worse.
7. Preparing for Dentures or Implants
If you’re getting dentures or dental implants, you might need to remove teeth first. This can create a clean, healthy space for your new smile. Our dentist in Oak Park, IL, will let you know if this step is necessary.
8. Teeth That Won’t Come In Right
Sometimes, teeth grow in the wrong direction or get stuck under the gums. When this happens, Dr. Wegner may need to remove teeth to keep everything else in line.
9. Chronic Jaw Pain or Headaches
Believe it or not, dental problems can cause headaches and jaw pain. If misaligned or overcrowded teeth are the cause, removing teeth can relieve the pressure and ease your pain.
Talk to Your Dentist in Oak Park, IL, About Gentle Tooth Extractions
If you’re unsure whether it’s time to remove teeth, don’t worry – Dr. Thomas W. Wegner can help! Contact Town and Country Dental of Oak Park, IL, here, or call our patient care coordinator at (708) 383-0330 for advice and scheduling.