Even if you need a tooth extraction, what you’ve heard about this treatment could make you hesitate. Fair enough – many rumors and stereotypes tend to paint this procedure in a poor light. With that said, most of this gossip amounts to untrue bunk; a tooth extraction is an excellent service. Your Danvers dentist can even outline which claims are false. So, simply keep reading to discover four major myths about tooth extractions.
You Must Always Extract an Infected Tooth
It’s easy to assume an infected tooth always has to be removed. However, the truth is that such an infection doesn’t always require an extraction.
You see, tooth infections vary in their severity. Teeth that haven’t been infected for too long can often be saved instead of extracted. More specifically, they can receive a root canal that simply removes their pulp – the inner tissue inflamed by bacteria. This latter option can keep an infected tooth intact without removing it, thus protecting your oral health.
Extraction Recovery is a Long Process
Since permanent teeth aren’t “meant” to come out, you may think tooth extraction entails a long recovery. Still, this idea isn’t true; it’s possible to heal quickly from the removal work.
The fact is that most patients can recover from a tooth extraction in just 1-2 weeks. After that period, your body will have formed the blood clot needed to heal your jaw socket. You just need to follow your dentist’s post-op instructions; your mouth will heal completely in less than a month.
All Wisdom Teeth Must Be Extracted
Dentists commonly advised the removal of all wisdom teeth in the past. Even so, that advice no longer holds today.
Most modern dentists now think some wisdom teeth can be left alone. Indeed, research shows that these chompers can often erupt properly without any ill effects. This result is even more likely if a patient has extra space in their mouth. Ultimately, you’d need an oral exam to confirm whether your wisdom tooth needs removal.
There’s No Need to Replace Extracted Teeth
You may think there’s no point in replacing an extracted tooth. If so, you’d be wrong; doing so is crucial to your oral health.
Unless it’s a third molar, you should always replace an extracted tooth to protect your smile. Skipping replacement will lead to an unsightly smile gap that houses harmful bacteria. Left alone, this space will increase your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and worse. It’ll also tilt your remaining teeth until your smile looks crooked.
As you can see, you shouldn’t trust the myths about tooth extraction. Get this treatment as soon as possible if and when you need it.
About the Practice
Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry is based in Danvers, MA. Led by Drs. Christin, Govostes, and Vasconcellos, our practice prioritizes comprehensive dental care. We gladly offer preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative treatments for our patients, with everything tailored to your unique needs. That means you and your family can trust us to help your smiles thrive! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (978)-774-0725.