The Benefits And Risks Of Tooth Extraction

In simple words, tooth extraction, or exodontia, is removing a tooth from the dental socket in the alveolar bone. The extraction process may be non-surgical (simple) or surgical and performed by specialists like oral surgeons or periodontists. Exodontia may be necessary for various reasons, such as dental decay, trauma, tooth infection, periodontal (gum) diseases, etc. Tooth removal is a common practice that dentists Keller TX, perform. However, like any other dental procedure, tooth extraction has pros and cons. What are they? Let us find out!

Top Four Benefits Of Tooth Extraction

To begin with, you must remember that dentists prefer to save natural teeth whenever possible. When restorative methods like dental fillings and crowns fail, dentists opt for tooth extraction as a last resort. Some of the significant tooth removal benefits are –

  • A Stunning Smile

One of the reasons for recommending tooth removal to an individual is unusual-looking teeth, which make their smiles seem unattractive. Removing a tooth (or a few teeth) enables reconfiguring the remaining teeth for better alignment. Thus, the patient’s smile improves, and their teeth function better when biting, chewing, and even talking.

  • Dodge Prospective Problems

If a dentist examines a person’s infected tooth and concludes that it will likely cause more problems, then tooth extraction becomes a feasible solution. By removing a tooth with a detrimental prognosis, you take care of an ensuing dental problem. Thus, the patient can save money and dodge the difficulties that would have occurred had they kept the infected tooth. For instance, removing a Wisdom tooth is an apt scenario wherein tooth extraction is ideal as a preemptive measure to help the patient.

  • Increased Choices

After tooth extraction, patients have more choices on what to do with the remaining socket. For example, they might opt for a dental bridge, a partial denture, an implant-supported replacement, etc.

  • Better Cost Efficiency

More often than not, tooth extraction is more cost-efficient and less hazardous than attempting to save a tooth with an infection. For example, although it may cost more than a root canal, the latter does not eradicate the problem at the ‘root’; re-infections or pain might pop up in that tooth again.

Now that we have discussed the four benefits of tooth extraction, let us delve into the cons of the process.

Top Three Cons Of Tooth Extraction

Before dabbling into tooth extraction, it is vital to understand the cons of the process to make a sound decision.

  • High Replacement Costs

For many people, their oral health journey does not end at tooth extraction, as it has to be followed up by replacements. However, tooth replacements are an expensive procedure and an added financial burden. For example, opting for partial dentures can be cumbersome for many people after extraction. Furthermore, dentures are not even a permanent solution and require regular replacement. Similarly, dental implants – another replacement method – are also exorbitantly pricey. Thus, one must consider dental replacement costs before opting for tooth removal.

  • Detrimental Impact on Adjoining Teeth

One of the major cons of tooth extraction, primarily through a surgical method, is the high risk of negatively affecting nearby teeth. The tools used in extraction can chip or even traumatize the adjoining teeth and jawbone. Thus, the neighboring teeth can loosen over time. Of course, a dentist leaves no stone unturned while tooth extraction reduces complications, but the risks still persist.

  • Ancillary Risks

Similar to other surgical procedures, tooth extraction has a minuscule risk of ancillary complications, such as –

  • Dry socket
  • Nerve injury
  • Post-surgical infection
  • Perforation of maxillary sinus
  • Delayed healing

So, there we have it, the three significant demerits or risks of the tooth extraction crown process.

Tooth Extraction Recovery Process

The benefits of tooth removal can be reaped only when the recovery process is smooth. Some of the ways patients can take better care of their mouth after an extraction process are –

  • Keeping the extraction site squeaky clean by gently rinsing the area with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
  • Taking all the medications as directed by the dentist
  • Avoiding strenuous activities for at least two days post-extraction, avoiding the gym, not lifting heavy objects at home, and so forth are ideal.

Wrapping It Up

In a nutshell, tooth extraction is a necessary dental procedure that helps millions of people every year. It can be an excellent way to dodge future dental problems, relieve pain, and achieve a stunning smile. However, you must consult a dentist before opting for the procedure, as it has drawbacks. In addition, researching the pros and cons of tooth extraction can help you make the right decision.