Tooth Extraction or Repair? Which Is Best for You?

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Hello and welcome, dear readers! If you haven't been to the dentist for quite some time, you may be feeling pretty nervous about your next appointment. Do not panic! This blog has been created in the hope that it will provide you with everything you need to know about making a visit to the dentist clinic. We will explore the different treatments available to you, the steps you can take to protect your teeth and gums, and some top tips which will make your appointment straight forward and hassle-free. Make sure that you check back soon for more updates. Thanks!

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Tooth Extraction or Repair? Which Is Best for You?

1 December 2021
 Categories: Dentist, Blog


If you have a tooth that is badly affected by decay or infection, you might wonder whether it is better to get it removed rather than having a procedure such as a root canal treatment to try to fix it. However, there are many reasons why dentists try to save teeth rather than pulling them out. Here are a few reasons to opt for tooth repair rather than extraction.

Natural Teeth Are Better Than Replacements

Dentists can offer some brilliant options for replacing missing teeth, such as dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures. However, nothing is quite as good as the teeth you were born with. Natural teeth have in-built defense mechanisms against decay, are perfectly integrated into your gums, and are naturally designed to support chewing, speaking, and everything else you do with your mouth. If possible, it is always best to keep your own teeth.

Removing a Tooth Can Damage Alignment

You might think that one missing tooth is not a big deal, but in fact the other teeth can shift to fill the gap that it left, causing problems with your dental alignment. As a result, you can end up with teeth that scrape against your tongue or cheeks while you chew, which is far from ideal. Prevent these alignment problems by retaining your tooth if possible. 

Teeth Protect Underlying Structures

Teeth transmit chewing forces down through the gums and into the bone beneath, stimulating the growth of new bone. Without this stimulation, the bone can become weak and can change shape, making you look older than you are. Keeping your tooth in place helps to keep your gums and facial bones healthy.

Feel More Confident With Your Own Teeth

Keeping your own teeth can help you to have a natural-looking smile, rather than a gap or a prosthetic which might not perfectly match your other teeth. Knowing that your smile looks great can be a real confidence booster.

Avoid Recovery Complications and Pain

Many people are keen to avoid root canal treatment because they are worried that it might be painful, but in fact dentists use local numbing treatments to ensure you feel no pain. However, the recovery from a tooth extraction can include a lot of soreness around the extraction site. It is also possible to develop dry socket, which is a painful condition where the clot that forms over the empty tooth socket dislodges too soon. You can avoid potential complications by asking your dentist to save your tooth if possible.