| Dr. Mark Osmond: Dental Extractions |
| Written by Dr. Mark Osmond |
| Thursday, 08 March 2012 15:23 |
|
Why would I need a dental extraction? There are a number of reasons for an extraction: 1. If a tooth is too decayed and broken down to fix Is it better to have an extraction or a filling? It is nearly always preferable to save a tooth than to remove it. Therefore, if possible, having the tooth filled is the better option. However, if the tooth is beyond repair, an extraction is advisable and is preferable to simply doing nothing. If a tooth requiring extraction is not treated, infection will develop which will cause pain and over time will destroy bone. It is a common problem that the teeth either side of an extraction site can drift, and the tooth in the opposite jaw can move up into the space. There are a number of options that can successfully fill the gap after a tooth has been removed. A bridge is where the gap is filled by a new tooth which is fixed in place and supported on either side on the adjacent teeth. Dentures are removable and often used when there are multiple teeth missing or the adjacent teeth are not strong enough to support a bridge. An implant is where a new titanium root is placed in the bone and a replacement crown attached. The best option for you is dictated by a number of factors, including your suitability from a clinical perspective, your personal preference and your budget. Some shaky teeth can recover with the correct treatment and become firm and solid again. If a tooth is loose but functional and not causing pain, it can be kept providing that is it reviewed regularly to ensure no infection sets in. Historically it was the practice that the majority of people had their wisdom teeth removed. This, however, is not the case any more. Wisdom teeth should only be removed if they are consistently causing problems and there is a sound clinical reason to do the surgery. Dr. Mark Osmond is the latest columnist to join the fp. He has been a practising dentist for more than 20 years, having qualified from Kings College London. He owned and ran two dental clinics in the U.K. before relocating in 2005 to the Turks and Caicos Islands, where he now runs Mark Osmond Dental Clinic. Through this regular column, Dr. Mark will answer your dental queries and invites you to submit any questions either by e-mail to
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or on his Facebook page, DrMarkOsmond. |
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