The Importance of Periodontal Health: When Extraction Becomes Necessary

Tooth extraction is often viewed as a last resort, reserved for teeth that are severely damaged or decayed. However, there's another reason you might need to have a tooth removed—and it has more to do with the health of your gums than the state of your tooth itself. In certain cases, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and may require extraction.

A Closer Look at Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding your teeth. It begins with plaque buildup on your teeth and gums. If not removed through proper oral hygiene practices and professional cleanings, this plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gum inflammation (gingivitis). While early-stage gingivitis can be treated and reversed without causing tissue damage, it's a different story if the disease is left untreated. Gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, which involves deeper infection and inflammation that can damage the connective tissues and bone holding your teeth in place.

The Link between Periodontal Disease and Tooth Loss

One of the primary concerns with periodontal disease is tooth loss. In fact, it's the most common cause of tooth loss among adults. As periodontitis progresses, the infection and inflammation worsen, leading to damage to the connective tissues and bone supporting your teeth. Without treatment, these structures continue to weaken and diminish, causing your teeth to become loose and potentially requiring extraction or even falling out on their own. Because the early stages of periodontal disease often occur without any pain or discomfort, it's earned a reputation as a silent threat to oral health.

When Extraction Becomes Necessary

While our practice does everything possible to preserve your natural teeth and prevent further damage from periodontal disease, sometimes extraction may be necessary. When making this decision, we consider factors such as tooth mobility, the severity of attachment loss, radiographic bone loss greater than 50%, and associated factors.

Tooth extraction due to advanced periodontal disease can provide an opportunity for stopping the infection, allowing tissue healing, and restoring your oral health. Plus, with increasing evidence linking gum disease to overall health, it's essential to get your periodontal health back on track.

At the office of Lindenbrook Dental Care, we provide precise, gentle care and partner with every patient to maintain optimal oral health that supports overall wellness. If you need a tooth extracted due to periodontal disease or another issue, you can count on our practice for the skilled treatment that's required. We'll explain every step in care and discuss your options to restore your periodontal health and rebuild a complete and beautiful smile.