Do You Always Need a Tooth Replaced After an Extraction?

Tooth extraction is a fairly common and typically simple procedure. It can often be done with local anesthesia in less than an hour. However some tooth extractions are more complex and may require sedation and longer time in the dental chair. Whatever the situation, tooth extraction may be in the best interest of your oral health. 

After a tooth is extracted, does it need to be replaced? In some cases yes, in others no. It depends on a variety of factors such as the type of tooth and the reason for the extraction. In this article you will learn why teeth are extracted, when it is appropriate to replace teeth, and what replacement options are available. 

Why Do Teeth Need to be Extracted? 

You may need a tooth extraction due to any of the following situations: 

• Significant decay. When one or more teeth are decayed beyond the point of being saved, extraction is the best option for your oral health. 
• Extensive damage. A severely cracked or fractured tooth may not be reparable, making extraction necessary. 
• Orthodontic reasons. In some cases there is not enough room in the jaw for all of the teeth to fit properly. Extracting some teeth can make more space for the remaining teeth to be in proper alignment. 
• Impacted teeth. When a tooth is stuck under the gums it is considered to be impacted. This happens most often with wisdom teeth, the third molars that develop in the late teen or early adult years. 

When Should You Replace Extracted Teeth? 

If one or more teeth were extracted due to decay or damage, they should be replaced in order to keep the rest of your teeth in proper alignment. Leaving gaps where teeth used to be can allow your other teeth to shift into the empty space, leading to lack of support and creating abnormal spaces between other teeth. Another reason for replacing extracted teeth is to preserve the bone structure in the jaw, preventing bone loss and changes in facial appearance. You may even find that you have difficulty with chewing and speech in the absence of certain teeth. 

When Should You Not Replace Extracted Teeth? 

In the following cases, replacement teeth are not recommended: 

• Wisdom teeth. The third molars are not needed for adequate chewing and tend to be more problematic than they are worth. These are extracted without replacement. 
• Teeth removed to alleviate crowding. If you have some teeth removed to make more space in your jaw, replacing them is not necessary. 

Tooth Replacement Options 

The good news is that there are a few different options for replacing teeth, giving you a choice when it comes to your restoration. 

Dental implants

The highest quality tooth replacement option is a dental implant. A titanium post is surgically placed in the jaw to replace the natural tooth root. It fuses with the bone, forming a solid bond that can support an artificial tooth. 

Pros: 

• Natural function 
• Natural appearance
• Long lasting (30 years to a lifetime)

Cons:

• Higher cost than other replacements
• Longer process (a few months to a year or more)  

Bridges

A bridge can replace one or a few missing teeth in a row, using the healthy teeth for support. Crowns fit over the teeth on each side of the gap with artificial teeth between them that sit on top of the gums. 

Pros:

• Lower cost
• Faster process 

Cons: 

• Shorter lifespan (5-15 years)
• Permanently alter health teeth
• May damage support teeth over time

Dentures

Dentures can replace multiple or all of the teeth. Traditional dentures attach to the gums by suction or adhesives. Partial dentures attach to the remaining teeth with clasps. Implant supported dentures are anchored to the jaw with 4-6 dental implants. 

Pros of traditional dentures :

• Affordable
• Shorter process 

Cons of traditional dentures:

• May slip out of place when eating and talking 
• Must be removed at night 

Pros of implant-supported dentures: 

• Securely anchored to the jaw
• Natural look and function 

Cons of implant-supported dentures: 

• Higher cost than traditional dentures
• Longer process 

Choosing a Tooth Replacement Option 

In order to choose the best tooth replacement option for you, schedule a consultation with Oral Facial Surgery of Orange Park. After an oral health evaluation we can recommend the best course of treatment for you, including tooth extraction and the dental prosthetics that can be used to replace them. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Replacement 

What is the most affordable tooth replacement option? 

A dental bridge is the most affordable way to replace a single tooth. Traditional dentures are the most affordable option for replacing all of your teeth at once. However, the lower cost is due to the quality of the restoration you are receiving. Higher cost options such as dental implants provide a better quality replacement. 

What tooth replacement option lasts the longest? 

Dental implants are proven to be the longest lasting tooth replacement option. They can last for 30 years to a lifetime. 

Oral Facial Surgery of Orange Park is a leading provider of oral surgery procedures for patients of all ages. Dr. Semidey and his team of professionals are dedicated to compassionate care in a comfortable environment. To learn more about our practice, contact us today and schedule an appointment.