Why Dentists May Recommend Tooth Extraction
At our Farmington dental office, we understand that no one wants to lose a natural tooth. Our priority is always to preserve your permanent teeth whenever possible. However, in some cases, a tooth extraction may be the best step for maintaining long-term oral health and preventing further complications.
Tooth extraction involves carefully removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While it’s usually a last resort, extractions can relieve pain, stop infection, and prepare your smile for future treatments such as dental implants or orthodontics.
Read below to discover the most common reasons for tooth extraction. If you’re experiencing dental pain or have concerns about your oral health, call our office at (860) 470-3660 to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Farmington today. Our friendly team proudly serves patients in Farmington, Plainville, New Britain, Hartford, and Newington, CT, with comprehensive dental care and personalized treatment options.
Common Reasons Patients May Need Tooth Extraction
Severe Tooth Decay or Damage
When cavities progress deep into the tooth’s pulp and restorative treatments like dental fillings or root canals are no longer possible, extraction may be recommended. Removing a decayed or fractured tooth can stop pain, prevent infection, and protect surrounding natural teeth.
Overcrowding & Orthodontic Needs
In cases of overcrowding, one or more teeth may need to be extracted to create space for a healthier bite and straighter smile. This is often part of orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners.
Advanced Gum Disease
Periodontitis (advanced gum disease) causes bone and tissue loss around the teeth. If teeth become loose or unstable, extraction may be necessary to protect remaining teeth and improve overall dental health.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth often lack room to erupt properly, leading to impaction, infection, or pressure on nearby teeth. A surgical tooth extraction may be recommended to protect your long-term oral health.
Failed Root Canal Treatment
If a tooth that has undergone a root canal becomes reinfected or fails to heal, extraction may be the best way to stop pain and protect nearby teeth.
Trauma or Injury
Accidents, sports injuries, or fractures may damage teeth beyond repair. In these cases, removal prevents further issues and may allow for replacement teeth such as dental implants or dental bridges.
Types of Tooth Extractions
There are different types of tooth extraction:
- Simple Extraction: Performed above the gum line when a tooth is visible and can be removed in one piece.
- Surgical Extraction: Needed when a tooth is impacted, broken below the gum line, or in multiple pieces.
- Multi-Tooth Extraction: For patients requiring removal of multiple teeth due to advanced gum disease, trauma, or widespread infection.
Benefits of Tooth Extraction
If you’re debating getting a tooth extraction, we understand. However, there are many benefits of tooth extraction:
- Pain Relief: Eliminates discomfort caused by decay, infection, or overcrowding.
- Prevents Infection: Stops bacteria from spreading to healthy teeth or throughout the body.
- Improved Oral Health: Protects neighboring teeth and gum tissue.
- Creates Space: Makes orthodontic treatment more effective.
- Cost-Effective: In certain cases, extraction is more affordable than advanced dental work.
- Prepares for Restoration: Opens the way for dental implants or other restorative dentistry options to restore a beautiful smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. A fractured or severely damaged tooth may need to be removed if it can’t be saved. In these cases, we’ll discuss treatment options like dental implants to restore your smile.
Sometimes, yes. Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can still cause infection, decay, or crowding even without noticeable pain. A consultation at our Farmington dental practice can determine if removal is the best choice.
The best prevention is good oral hygiene—brushing, flossing, and scheduling regular dental cleanings. Routine visits allow our Farmington dentist to spot concerns early before they require extraction.
We offer dental implants, bridges, and partial dentures to restore missing teeth. These options can help you maintain a confident smile and long-term oral health.
Schedule Your Tooth Extraction Appointment in Farmington, CT
If you’re struggling with dental pain, gum disease, or overcrowding, a tooth extraction may be the best way to protect your healthy smile. At our Farmington dental practice, we combine compassionate care with the latest dental technologies to provide safe, effective extractions and long-term solutions like dental implants.
Call (860) 470-3660 today to schedule your consultation with a trusted dentist in Farmington, CT. Our friendly team is committed to providing the highest quality dental services to patients in Farmington, Plainville, New Britain, Hartford, and Newington, CT.

