Most extraction of teeth other than 3rd molars (wisdom teeth) are due to caries (cavities) that have done significant damage to tooth structure and have rendered the tooth non-restorable or at least a poor candidate for restoration.

Caries may also lead to infection of the pulp of the tooth which may then become a dental abscess or cause an irreversible pulpitis. In both cases, the treatment is either root canal therapy or extraction of the tooth. If there is enough tooth structure and the tooth has periodontal health (gum tissue health) then root canal therapy may be advisable. Dr. Reynolds does not do root canal therapy so if this is the case he would refer you to an endodontist.

Periodontal disease, if advanced, is another reason for extraction. Periodontal disease can often be treated so referral to a periodontist may be contemplated.

Keeping a diseased tooth in place without treatment can lead to local destruction of bone, damage to adjacent teeth structure and support and maybe even damage to distant organs due to bacteria or their toxins entering the blood stream. A toothache should not be ignored.

To preview Pre-Operative Instructions, Consent and Post-Operative Instructions along with the scheduled visits, see “Doc’s Orders: Dental: Instructions for Dental Services”.