Although our teeth are meant to last a lifetime, 20 million of them are extracted each year in the U.S. According to a survey conducted by the American Academy of Endodontists, older individuals are much more likely than younger individuals to have experienced a tooth extraction. Women are more likely than men to have had a tooth extraction.
While we strive to help our patients keep their natural teeth smiling for as long as possible, sometimes an extraction is necessary to restore dental and oral health.
Teeth are often removed because they are impacted and prevented from growing into their normal position in the mouth by gum tissue, bone, or other teeth. Impaction is a common reason for the extraction of wisdom teeth. Half of all tooth extractions nationwide each year are wisdom tooth extractions.
Teeth may also be extracted to make more room in the mouth prior to straightening the remaining teeth or because they are so badly positioned that straightening is impossible. In other smiles, badly decayed or broken teeth that cannot be restored may need to be extracted.
We value your ability to keep your natural teeth for as long as possible. Sometimes, a tooth extraction is necessary. Contact us to assess your smile’s needs.