There are times when you think to yourself, “Hmm, I wonder if I really need a dental extraction.” You aren’t sure if what’s going on really warrants it, so the idea of having the tooth removed causes you some concern. We understand! We also remind you that when we recommend an extraction, it’s because we are protecting your oral health (and we make such a decision with conservative planning). So, what are some of these reasons that sometimes, a tooth simply must come out, you wonder? Take a moment to more fully understand the ways tooth removal becomes an integral part of your smile care at our Cerritos, CA practice.
You’re Planning On Straightening Your (Overcrowded) Smile
If your smile isn’t straight and you’re experiencing something called overcrowding, then you have a very basic preliminary problem you need addressed first: You have too many teeth and you need one or more removed with a dental extraction! Then, your orthodontic plan can unfold beautifully, as remaining are moved into optimal alignment.
You’re Ready For A Prosthetic (But You Have An Obstacle)
When you’ve lost many of your teeth, you may realize that you’re ready for a traditionally- or implant-supported prosthetic like a denture. However, what are you supposed to do, for instance, when you’ve lost every single tooth on an arch but one? What if that final tooth is not holding up very well? Do you just leave it in place and work around it? Or, do you move ahead with plans for your denture? This is when a dental extraction may come into play. We can remove that final tooth as a means of benefitting your entire smile by choosing a denture!
You Have An Existing Infection
An existing dental infection doesn’t keep to itself and remain static. Instead, it does two main things: It worsens. It spreads. You don’t want either of these to occur! To stop this from happening, which can cause you some truly severe and uncomfortable experiences, we suggest the removal of the tooth when we cannot clear away the infection. Choose a dental extraction and you may recover your oral health.
Protect Your Entire Smile With Important Extractions
If you need help saving your smile due to a damaged, diseased, or in-the-way tooth, we invite you to see us for a comfortable dental extraction. To schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Hofkes, contact us today by calling 562-584-4082. We proudly welcome patients of all ages from Cerritos, CA, and all surrounding communities, such as Lakewood, Long Beach, Buena Park, and more.
