If your tooth broke or was damaged by decay, your dentist will try every possible method to salvage it. However, according to William B. Collier Jr. DMD in Enterprise, AL, there are many situations where the tooth is too damaged to be repaired.

In these cases, a tooth extraction is recommended. Here are four situations in which a dentist will recommend this routine procedure:

• Your Tooth Is Severely Decayed: The biggest reason why dentists recommend tooth extractions is when decay has reached the root. In these cases, the infection has destroyed a large portion of the tooth and often the surrounding bone. This damage can eventually reach the roots of nearby molars unless the tooth is pulled.
• You Need to Make Room for Dental Prosthetics: Before implanting full or partial dentures, your dentist will often need to remove your existing teeth. This helps the prosthetics fit properly into place and ensures a healthy mouth.
• You Require Wisdom Teeth Removal: When wisdom teeth are partially erupted, they put the entire mouth at risk of an infection. Bacteria can easily enter the surrounding bone, and the continued pressure caused by impacted teeth can eventually spread to the others. Even if the teeth are completely erupted, your mouth might not have enough space to accommodate these large molars.
• Your Mouth Is Overcrowded: When your mouth isn’t large enough to accommodate all your teeth, it can easily become crowded. Dentists will often pull one or two teeth before placing braces in a patient’s mouth to make way for a straighter smile.

If you think you might need a tooth extraction, trust William B. Collier Jr. DMD. For more than 35 years, this dentist has provided top-of-the-line solutions to Enterprise, AL, residents. Every service he offers revolves around each patient’s individual needs and dental history. For more information, visit their website. Book your appointment today by calling (334) 347-5026.