Is it Too Late To Save My Tooth?

You probably don’t consider how often you use your teeth to complete simple daily tasks like speaking and chewing. You could never imagine having to get one of your pearly whites extracted due to an oral health problem like an infection. However, sometimes that’s a necessary step to take to relieve your pain and prevent further damage. Instead of wondering “Is it too late to save my tooth?,” read on to learn how your dentist may be able to salvage your natural smile.

Causes of Tooth Loss

There are two primary reasons that people need a tooth extracted. These include severe tooth decay that results in an infection, and gum disease. Cavities are typically where both of these issues start. Because of poor oral hygiene, harmful oral bacteria can accumulate and release acid and toxins that erode your tooth enamel and leave your pearly whites susceptible to decay. The toxins can result in a bacterial gum infection, and untreated cavities can leave the sensitive inner portion of your tooth vulnerable to becoming attacked by harmful substances in your mouth. Without being treated, both of these problems can result in the loss of teeth.

Signs That You May Need An Extraction

Because there are a couple causes of tooth loss, there are a few signs that an extraction may be in your future. The best way to prevent your problem from progressing this far is to visit your dentist as soon as you experience any kind of out-of-the-ordinary oral discomfort or pain. Some additional signs to look out for include:

• Severe toothache
• Receded gums
• Jaw pain
• Swollen or red gums
• A discolored tooth

Most patients are hesitant to go to their emergency dentist because they’re not sure if the problem is severe enough to seek immediate treatment. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, you should get help fast. In matters where time is of the essence, a day or two could be the difference between saving and losing your tooth.

Treatment Options That Could Salvage Your Tooth

With advanced dental technology, tooth extractions aren’t always the only option you have. In fact, for most dentists they’re the last resort. If you seek professional treatment in a timely manner, your dentist can prevent tooth extraction with these procedures:

• Tooth-Colored Filling. Before cavities have a chance to cause severe damage to your teeth, your dentist can fill them with a composite resin. This will restore the function and shape of your tooth and seal it, protecting the vulnerable chamber and pulp from becoming attacked by harmful oral bacteria and causing infection. This treatment is fast and typically covered by most dental insurance plans.  
• Root Canal Therapy. Patients often associate root canals with pain; however, this is a common dental myth. With the latest technology, you won’t feel a thing during the procedure. Plus, you’ll feel significantly more comfortable once the infected pulp of your tooth has been removed. Most dentists will recommend this treatment before tooth extraction if the problem isn’t too severe.

Don’t let your natural smile be taken away from you without a fight. If you notice any dental pain or discomfort, always schedule an appointment with your emergency dentist immediately. Avoid risking your beautiful pearly whites by seeking routine preventive care that can tackle oral health problems while they’re still small.

About the Author

Dr. Cindy Hua enjoys getting to know her patients in Sugar Land and giving them the tools and knowledge they need to maintain a healthy and happy smile. She has taken advanced training courses in sedation dentistry so her patients can feel comfortable and relaxed while they get the dental care they need. With over seven years of experience as a dentist, her patients receive quality care that exceeds their expectations. For questions or to schedule a checkup, visit Eco Dental’s website or call 281-491-9494.