
Our teeth are incredibly strong, but sometimes things happen that necessitate a visit to the emergency dentist. While tooth extraction is always a last resort, in certain situations, it’s the best course of action to preserve your oral health and overall well-being. This blog post explores five reasons why you might need an emergency tooth extraction and what to expect during the procedure.
1. Unbearable Toothache and Severe Infection
Throbbing, persistent toothaches are a telltale sign of something wrong. If you’re experiencing severe pain alongside symptoms like swelling, redness around the gums, or even a fever, it could indicate a dental infection. In such cases, immediate attention from a South Hills dentist is crucial.
Left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues and even enter your bloodstream, leading to serious health complications. An emergency dentist South Hills PA will likely recommend an extraction to eliminate the source of the infection and prevent further issues.
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth Causing Problems
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to erupt, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. Sometimes, there isn’t enough space in the jaw for them to come in properly. This can lead to impaction, where the wisdom tooth gets stuck beneath the gum tissue or erupts at an angle, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty chewing.
Impacted wisdom teeth can also contribute to other dental problems like gum disease and damage to nearby teeth. If you’re experiencing these issues, consulting an emergency dentist South Hills to discuss the possibility of wisdom teeth extraction might be necessary.
3. Severely Damaged or Fractured Tooth
Accidents happen, and sometimes a blow to the face can cause a tooth to crack or fracture. The severity of the damage will determine the course of treatment. If the fracture extends below the gum line or compromises the tooth’s pulp (the inner chamber containing nerves and blood vessels), extraction may be the only option.
Similarly, extensive tooth decay that cannot be restored with fillings or a root canal can necessitate extraction. A dentist in South Hills will be able to assess the extent of the damage and recommend the most suitable treatment plan to restore your oral health.
4. Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a severe infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to significant bone loss, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss.
In some advanced cases of gum disease, where the bone supporting the tooth is severely compromised, extraction may be necessary to prevent further complications and preserve the health of surrounding teeth. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and regular dental checkups are crucial for preventing gum disease.
5. Acute Trauma with Tooth Displacement
A forceful impact to the face can not only fracture a tooth but also cause it to become loose or completely dislodged from its socket. In such cases, immediate action is required to try and save the tooth.
However, depending on the severity of the displacement and the extent of damage to the supporting structures, emergency tooth extraction might be necessary. A emergency dentist South Hills will be able to assess the situation and determine the best course of action for preserving your oral health.
Emergency Dental Care at Pearl Dentistry of South Hills
Experiencing a dental emergency can be stressful, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Pearl Dentistry of South Hills, we understand the importance of prompt attention, especially when dealing with severe pain or infection.
Our team of experienced dentists offers emergency dental care services to address your dental concerns quickly and effectively. We are committed to providing compassionate and high-quality care to help you restore your oral health and get back to feeling your best.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in South Hills, PA, don’t hesitate to contact Pearl Dentistry of South Hills. We are available to assist you and schedule an appointment with us.