Tooth Extraction vs Restoration: When a Tooth Can’t Be Saved

Tooth decay is just one of several dental problems that can require tooth extraction. Children aged 5-10 have an average of 1.5 missing or decayed teeth. In many cases, our dentist can preserve the tooth using tooth restoration. 

Do you know the causes of restoration vs extraction? Read on to learn whether you may need to have a tooth extracted or whether one of our dentists can use a restorative treatment to preserve the health of your tooth. 

When Can a Tooth Be Restored?

There are many times when a tooth can be restored using dental fillings or another restorative treatment. For example, our dentist may remove minor tooth decay and use filings to replace the lost tooth structure. At The Bondi Dentists, Dr Ever Juan performs this form of restorative dentistry frequently.

A root canal is another form of restorative treatment that preserves the tooth. Once the infected tissue is removed from deep within your tooth, your dentist will restore your tooth using an inlay, onlay, or dental crown. 

When Is Tooth Extraction Required?

Dr Ever Juan will take great care to preserve your natural tooth when possible. There are situations where extracting a tooth is the best option for restoring oral health and relieving pain or discomfort. Here are a few common examples.

Broken Tooth

Minor chips can occur for a number of reasons. Sports accidents or biting a hard object can crack or chip enamel. In many cases, your dentist can fix these minor chips using dental fillings.

If the crack or chip exposes or damages the underlying root, then your dentist may recommend extracting the tooth when it is beyond repair. Doing so restores oral health and prevents the chance that a tooth may become infected.

Advanced Tooth Decay

The Bondi Dentists regularly treats minor tooth decay by removing decayed enamel and restoring teeth using fillings. If decay has compromised the health of the entire tooth, though, tooth extraction may be needed. In many cases, gentle tooth extraction relieves discomfort associated with tooth decay. 

Advanced Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a leading cause of tooth loss. Over time, the presence of bacteria causes the gum tissue to pull away from the tooth. This leaves a tooth potentially loose and prone to infection.

If gum disease has advanced too deeply and cannot be treated, your dentist may recommend extracting the tooth. 

Dental Crowding 

Wisdom teeth are often pulled to prevent dental crowding. When the third molars emerge, they can push the other teeth out of alignment. This can cause a range of problems that can complicate orthodontist treatments. Certain teeth may be recommended by an orthodontist for extraction if it can provide vital space to facilitate orthodontic treatment.

Schedule Your Next Visit to The Bondi Dentists

Don’t let concerns over tooth restorations or extraction stand between you and optimal oral health. Gentle tooth extraction is far more comfortable than you think. Once the tooth is removed, your dentist can offer one of several tooth-replacement options. 

To schedule your next visit to The Bondi Dentists, contact our office online or give us a call today!