🦷When does a tooth really need to be extracted?

Table of contents:

Many patients feel uncertain:
“Does this tooth really have to be pulled?”

Nowadays, a tooth is only extracted when there is no longer a viable alternative.

Extract the tooth or save it?

This decision is always made on a case-by-case basis – and only after a thorough diagnosis. After all, every tooth and every situation is different.

What issues need to be clarified before a decision is made?

How badly damaged are the tooth and the root?
→ Is a stable restoration possible?
Is there inflammation around the tooth or affecting the nerve?
→ Does root canal treatment or periodontal therapy have a chance of success?
Is it strategically sensible overall to preserve this tooth, or is there, for example, a lack of opposing contact?
→ Backmost tooth with no opposing tooth or dental prosthesis
Is there currently a lack of space or orthodontic reasons for removing the tooth?
→ To correct malocclusion
Problematic wisdom teeth
→ E.g. crooked growth, risk of inflammation
Is preserving the tooth medically and strategically sensible within the overall dentition and economically justifiable?
Long-term prognosis
→ Is the treatment sustainable? Or merely a short-term solution?
Problematic wisdom teeth
Individual factors
→ General oral health, personal preferences (e.g. effort, costs, aesthetics)

The decision is always based on a thorough, individual assessment.

Have the situation clarified as soon as possible.

Book here an appointment with Dr. Betthäuser