The goal of dentures is to replace missing teeth, so you might be confused when your dentist recommends an extraction or two in order to pave the way for your new prosthetic. But extractions are sometimes a necessary part of the dental restoration process. Here are three reasons you may need extractions before dentures can be placed.
1. PREVENT INFECTIONS
When dental enamel is compromised because of bacterial acids, fractures, or general tooth erosion, the tooth can become incredibly susceptible to problems like infections and oral abscesses. Over time, these infections can become severe enough that they start to affect the surrounding teeth, periodontal ligament, and underlying bone tissue, leading to widespread infections and bone loss.
While dentists always prefer to save as many teeth as possible, the fact of the matter is that leaving compromised teeth in place when a denture is already being fabricated might not be the best option for the patient. If the denture is created and then additional teeth need to be pulled in the future, you might face investing in another set of teeth, when the entire process could have been performed in one fell swoop.
Additionally, removing teeth that are susceptible to infection is important for anyone who is immunocompromised, since a single infection could spark inflammation that affects other vital body systems. If you are elderly or undergoing cancer treatment, extractions can help you to control your oral health more carefully, since you won't have to worry about natural teeth developing problems.
2. CREATE A BETTER FITTING DENTURE
Sometimes, dentists suggest tooth extractions because of the placement of the natural tooth, since some locations may interfere with denture fabrication. For instance, if you are missing the majority of your upper teeth but you still have a healthy canine intact, you will have to choose between an extraction and a single set of dentures, or leaving the tooth in place and having two separate prosthetics installed.
In addition to complicating the process, these types of denture fabrications tend to be less stable and fit differently than a single denture plate. Patients might be more likely to struggle with a slipping denture or strain on the healthy tooth, which can cause problems later.
Sometimes, these kinds of denture arrangements can also look less realistic, since they are installed alongside your natural teeth.
On the other hand, having the tooth pulled allows dentists and lab technicians to create an entire plate of teeth that look like they belong together and that fit the jaw perfectly.
3. PAVE THE WAY FOR IMMEDIATE DENTURES
Depending on your dental health, you may need to have multiple teeth pulled and then wait several weeks for the area to heal before dentures can be placed. However, if you can't stand the thought of living without teeth, your dentist might suggest clearing your entire mouth to pave the way for immediate dentures.
Immediate dentures are fabricated before your teeth are pulled, which helps dentists to more closely match color shades and tooth shapes. After the denture is complete, the extractions can be performed the same day as the immediate denture placement.
Some patients prefer immediate dentures because they act as a natural bandage to the healing sites of the extractions. Additionally, patients who receive immediate dentures won't have to learn to speak with missing teeth and then adjust after their dentures are installed.
If you have problems with your smile and you suspect you need extractions and dentures, let us help. At Dr. Gregory B. Halls, we work hard to make our office welcoming and comfortable for all of our patients by offering a variety of treatment options. Book your next appointment today by giving us a call.
