Lafayette, Colorado

Tooth Extractions

 

Reasons For Extracting (Pulling) Teeth:

Although permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime, there are a number of reasons why tooth extraction maybe needed.  A very common reason involves a tooth that is too badly damaged, from trauma or decay, to be repaired.

 

• Infection:  If tooth decay or damage extends to the pulp - - the center of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels - - bacteria in the mouth can enter the pulp, leading to infection.  Often this can be corrected with root canal therapy (RCT), but if the infection is so severe that antibiotics or RCT do not cure it, extraction maybe needed to prevent the spread of infection. 

• Periodontal (Gum) Disease:  If periodontal disease - - an infection of the tissues and bones that surround and support the teeth - - have caused loosening of the teeth, it may be necessary to pull the tooth or teeth.