Is Tooth Extraction Necessary if My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt?

Humans instinctually react to pain; if something hurts, there’s probably an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. But what about when you don’t feel any discomfort? Suppose that you had a toothache, only for it to disappear, or that you never had one in the first place. You’d most likely be confused when your dentist tells you that you need a tooth extraction!

Believe it or not, this isn’t impossible. Here’s why removing a tooth is sometimes necessary, even if you’re not in pain.

The Dental Nerves are Damaged

In cases of severe gum disease, infection, or tooth decay, harmful bacteria can spread so much that the disease penetrates your tooth’s various layers. If it gets past the outer enamel and through the tender dentin, it will find the squishy center that houses your dental nerves. One reason that a compromised tooth might not cause aches is that it physically can’t, because the dental nerves are too damaged.

Extraction Will Protect Your Other Teeth

When the situation is that urgent, your dentist will likely recommend removing the tooth. The problem with advanced cases of oral disease or infection is that your mouth can’t fight it off on its own, and the condition will only grow to affect your other teeth. So, to prevent more extensive damage or tooth loss, it’s sometimes necessary to extract unsalvageable pearly whites.

Your Mouth is Overcrowded

The circumstances aren’t always so extreme, though. Dental overcrowding, for example, typically occurs when there’s not enough room in your mouth for emerging wisdom teeth or effective orthodontics. Crooked pearly whites can also cause this dilemma by “crowding” together. To create enough space for straighter alignments and prevent your teeth from damaging each other further down the line, your dentist might have to remove a tooth or two.

Talk to Your Dentist to Be Sure

Since it can be hard to tell whether something’s wrong if you don’t feel pain or know whether your mouth is overcrowded, it’s important to trust your dentist. As a medical professional, they’re the only ones who can tell you for sure if you need an extraction. That doesn’t mean you can’t ask questions, though! They’d be happy to address your concerns and go over your diagnosis in more detail.

About the Practice

Dr. Phadnis and Dr. Javed are skilled and experienced dentists who prioritize their patients’ comfort as well as their oral health. If you need a tooth extraction, they’ll apply effective anesthetic, talk you through next-step arrangements, and offer sedation dentistry for anxious patients. Basically, Dr. Phadnis and Dr. Javed will make sure you’re well taken care of and your needs are addressed! To contact their office, call 860-400-3007.