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What Happens When a Tooth Can't Be Saved?

Posted on 12/16/2024 by Dr. Dani Stansell

3D rendering of partial dentures being placed on a lower jaw with missing back teeth at Stansell Dentistry Associates in Raleigh, NC

We all know the feeling: a sudden jolt of pain when you bite into something, or lingering sensitivity to hot or cold.

These can be signs that a tooth is in trouble.

While dentists are experts at saving teeth, sometimes a tooth is too damaged to be restored to a healthy state.

In these situations, our dentists will discuss your options, which may involve extracting the tooth. But don't worry, losing a tooth doesn't have to negatively impact your smile or oral health.

Understanding Restoration Dentistry

Restoration dentistry focuses on repairing damaged or diseased teeth. Common restorative procedures include fillings, crowns, and root canals.

These procedures aim to restore the tooth's function and appearance while preserving its natural structure.

However, there are situations where even the most advanced restorative techniques cannot salvage a tooth.

This can happen due to:

•	Extensive decay or damage: When a tooth has lost a significant portion of its structure due to decay, trauma, or other factors, it may be too weak to support a restoration.
•	Severe infection: If an infection reaches the pulp (the inner chamber of the tooth), it can cause significant damage and threaten the surrounding bone. In such cases, extraction becomes necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.
•	Advanced periodontal disease: This disease affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. In severe cases, it can weaken the bone to the point where the tooth becomes loose and cannot be saved.

The Decision to Extract

The decision to extract a tooth is never taken lightly.

Your dentist will carefully evaluate the tooth's condition, your overall oral health, and your individual needs before recommending extraction. They will explain the reasons behind the recommendation and discuss alternative options if available.

Replacing a Missing Tooth

After a tooth extraction, there are several options to replace the missing tooth and maintain a healthy smile. These include:

•	Dental implants: Implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed in the jawbone. They provide the most natural-looking and functional replacement for missing teeth.
•	Dental bridges: Bridges are fixed prosthetics that attach to neighboring teeth to fill the gap left by the missing tooth.
•	Partial dentures: Removable partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth. They are a more affordable option than implants or bridges.

Maintaining Your Oral Health

Losing a tooth can be an emotional experience, but it's important to remember that modern dentistry offers effective solutions for restoring your smile and oral function.

By working closely with our dentist and exploring the various replacement options, you can regain a healthy, confident smile.

Remember, even if you lose a tooth, maintaining good oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups is crucial for keeping your remaining teeth healthy.

Locations & Hours

Brier Creek

9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204
Raleigh, NC 27617-4879

Phone: 984-477-0177
Fax: 919-249-1375

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

North Raleigh

1911 Falls Valley Drive, Ste 107
Raleigh, NC 27615

Phone: 984-206-4242
Fax: 919-249-2145

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Knightdale

1101 Great Falls Ct, Ste 102
Knightdale, NC 27545

Phone: 984-733-0330
Fax: 919-415-1849

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Stansell Dentistry Associates, 9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204, Raleigh, NC 27617-4879 \ 984-477-0177 \ stanselldentistry.com \ 1/14/2025 \ Associated Words: dentist Raleigh NC \