8 Major Reasons for Emergency Tooth Extraction

When it comes to dental health, wisdom teeth often represent a ticking clock, and when the alarm sounds, the call for an emergency treatment becomes a priority for both patient and dentist. Also known as third molars, most people get these in their late teens or early twenties. Sometimes, they’re valuable assets when healthy and properly aligned, but most of the time they cause problems. 

Read on to learn the most common reasons for emergency extractions of wisdom teeth. And in case you sense an urgency for a check-up, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with your dentist in Escondido.

What causes emergency wisdom teeth removal?

Let’s look at the key reasons why tooth extraction might be needed:

1. Tooth impaction and pain

This is the most common cause for emergency removal, when teeth can’t break through the gum line properly or grow in at a strange angle, pressing against the other teeth. This often results in severe pain, signaling the need for an urgent extraction.

2. Infection

Partially erupted wisdom teeth can leave a gap that allows bacteria to sneak in, leading to infection. This can cause pain, swelling, a stiff jaw, and even make you feel ill. It’s important to remove these quickly to stop the infection from spreading.

3. Cysts and tumors

In some cases, wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors, which can cause damage to the jawbone and healthy teeth. These situations require immediate medical attention and often lead to the emergency removal, too.

4. Damage to nearby teeth

If wisdom teeth push against the second molars, they can damage the adjacent teeth or increase the risk of infection in that area. This pressure can also lead to problems with crowding of the other teeth, necessitating emergency intervention.

5. Gum disease

Wisdom teeth can often be tricky to reach and care for properly, which increases the risk of periodontal disease, characterized by pain, swelling, and redness of the gums. The inability to maintain proper hygiene around these teeth can call for their urgent removal.

6. Decay

Wisdom teeth are prone to decay because of their hard-to-reach location in the mouth. If tooth decay gets too advanced, an emergency extraction might be the only solution to prevent further oral health issues.

7. Orthodontic reasons

If you’re in the midst of orthodontic treatment, wisdom teeth can sometimes jeopardize your results by shifting other teeth. In such cases, an emergency extraction may be needed to preserve your teeth’s alignment.

8. Sinus issues

Issues with wisdom teeth can sometimes cause pain, pressure, and congestion. If the roots of a wisdom tooth reach into the sinus area, removing the tooth might provide relief from these symptoms.

What to expect? 

Before suggesting wisdom teeth removal, your dentist will review your medical history. Conditions like autoimmune diseases, diabetes, a history of oral infections, or certain medications might delay the procedure for safety reasons. Your dentist will also consider your long-term dental outlook, as problems with wisdom teeth often don’t appear until later stages. The decision is informed by X-rays, which reveal how your wisdom teeth are positioned in relation to the rest of your teeth.

Who performs reliable emergency extractions of wisdom teeth in Escondido?

If you’re grappling with these dental concerns or trying to figure out whether you need a simple or surgical extraction, it’s time to consult Dr. Tsvetov. As a trusted oral surgeon, he offers a spectrum of services, including dental implants and safe tooth extraction procedures, and is well-equipped to guide you through your options.

Plus, with today’s advances in dental technology and sedation, it’s a routine procedure with significant benefits for your long-term health and comfort. Our office is conveniently located just moments from the picturesque Rose Haven Heritage Garden – perfect for a relaxing stroll post-appointment. Call us to schedule your visit!