Our Hudsonville dentists prioritize preserving your natural teeth whenever possible, but there are times when removing a tooth is the best option for your smile. Severe decay, damage, or infection can compromise not only the affected tooth but also surrounding teeth and gums. In such cases, tooth extraction may offer the greatest benefit, preventing the spread of infection and relieving tooth pain. Though we primarily focus on simple extractions, our dentists can also perform certain surgical extractions, like for impacted wisdom teeth, when necessary.

Learn more about how tooth removal addresses discomfort and improves oral health below.

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Not everyone will need to undergo the tooth extraction procedure. However, if you’re experiencing discomfort or noticing unusual changes in your teeth or gums, it may be an indication that a tooth needs to come out. Severe tooth decay, fractured teeth, or teeth that are causing major crowding are all red flags for our dentists to investigate.

Pay attention to the following symptoms of a tooth in trouble:

  • Persistent pain in or around the tooth
  • Swelling, redness, or inflammation of the gums
  • Bleeding from the affected area
  • Pus discharge around the tooth or gum line
  • Jaw pain or swelling
  • Recurring infections or cysts around the wisdom teeth
  • Looseness in the tooth that wasn’t present before

Steps Taken Prior to Extraction

Before proceeding with pulling a tooth, our dentists will conduct a thorough examination to ensure the procedure is necessary or if root canal therapy or a dental crown will suffice. This initial assessment will often include a comprehensive review of your medical and dental history, along with detailed X-rays to evaluate the tooth’s position and the condition of the surrounding bone and tissues.

During this consultation, we will discuss your symptoms, concerns, and treatment options, including the type of anesthesia to be used depending on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level. By being completely transparent, our goal is to provide you with a clear understanding of the procedure, aftercare instructions, and any potential risks or complications, ensuring you feel informed and comfortable with the upcoming treatment.

Schedule an Appointment

Our tooth extraction dentists in Hudsonville, MI, will do everything in their power to protect your smile. However, if all other restorative procedures have been exhausted, we may need to seriously consider tooth removal. Call Hudsonville Dental today at (616) 209-4024, or contact us online to schedule an appointment so we can discuss your dental situation.

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