Will My Gum Disease Go Away After Tooth Extraction?

Gum disease is among the most common health problems on the planet, and it can lead to a host of issues like soft tissue and jawbone erosion, tooth loss, chronic pain, and possibly dangerous secondary infections like sepsis and pneumonia. While gum disease can usually be reversed with improved oral hygiene if caught in its early stages, you may be frustrated if you have struggled against an advanced oral infection for a long time. Here’s a quick overview of why tooth extraction may be a necessary part of treating gum disease.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is the result of bacteria infecting the soft tissues supporting the roots of the teeth, and it is typically due to poor oral hygiene and overexposure to acid and sugar. This infection starts as gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gum tissue that involves symptoms like swelling, bleeding, tenderness, and redness. While gingivitis can usually be reversed with better oral care, advanced gum infections called periodontitis may need to be managed with regular restorative treatments such as scaling and root planing.

Does Treating Advanced Gum Disease Require Tooth Extraction?

Since gum disease is caused by an infection of the soft tissues rather than of the teeth, treating periodontitis does not necessarily require extractions as long as the gums can be restored to adequate health for them to support the pearly whites. However, it may be necessary to remove teeth if the infection is so severe that they cannot be saved. For example, there may no longer be adequate remaining bone or gum tissue to support the teeth, or the infection in the gums may have spread to the enamel or pulp of a tooth.

How Do Tooth Extractions Work?

The process of removing a tooth always begins with the patient receiving an effective anesthetic to ensure their comfort, and many dentists offer sedation options for those who need extra help remaining calm and still. Once the patient is suitably numb, the dentist will use a device called an elevator to lift the tooth from the gum tissue and gently work it loose from its connective tissue with forceps. Afterward, the patient will receive detailed aftercare instructions to help them stay comfortable and ensure a smooth recovery.

Your dentist will not recommend removing a tooth unless it is the best way to preserve your smile. An extraction may be an essential part of restoring the health of your gums and preventing further infections.

About the Practice

Rubal Dentistry Azle offers the finest oral health services in town. Led by Drs. Frank and Jodie Rubal, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys compassionate and courteous care in a friendly and clean office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry as well as extraction services. To learn more about why tooth removal may be necessary, contact the office online or dial (817) 444-2585.