At Greene & Ratcliff Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington, TX, Dr. Kelsey Greene and Dr. Stephen Ratcliff provide expert dental care with a compassionate approach. While preserving your natural teeth is always the goal, there are situations where a tooth extraction may be the best option for your oral health. Here are five common reasons why you might need a tooth removed.
1. Severe Decay
Tooth decay is one of the leading causes of extractions. When a cavity goes untreated, the decay can reach the innermost layer of your tooth, known as the pulp. At this point, the damage may become too extensive for treatment options like fillings or root canals. Removing the decayed tooth not only prevents further pain but also protects the neighboring teeth from infection. Dr. Greene and Dr. Ratcliff ensure the process is as comfortable as possible, so you can focus on returning to optimal oral health.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, can weaken the tissues and bones that support your teeth. If untreated, this can lead to tooth looseness or even irreversible damage. For some patients, especially those with advanced gum disease, tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent further complications. The caring team at Greene & Ratcliff offers complete periodontal care to address gum health and ensure the best outcome.
3. Overcrowding
Overcrowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in your mouth for all your teeth to align properly. This is a common issue treated during orthodontic procedures. By removing one or more teeth, Dr. Greene or Dr. Ratcliff can create the space needed to straighten your remaining teeth effectively. Whether you’re getting braces or clear aligners, extracting overcrowded teeth may be a necessary step toward a beautiful, confident smile.
4. Impacted Teeth
Impacted teeth happen when a tooth is unable to fully erupt through the gumline. This is especially common with wisdom teeth, the third molars, which often lack the space to grow in comfortably. Impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, and even infection. Regular dental checkups at Greene & Ratcliff allow our dentists to monitor wisdom teeth and recommend extraction if it’s in your best interest.
5. Trauma or Injury
Accidents happen, and sometimes a tooth can’t be saved after a severe injury or dental trauma. A fractured tooth or one that’s been dislodged from its socket may require extraction to prevent pain, infection, or harm to surrounding teeth. Dr. Greene and Dr. Ratcliff work closely with patients, offering personalized care plans to restore your smile after an injury.
Compassionate Care You Can Trust
At Greene & Ratcliff Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that needing a tooth extraction can feel overwhelming. That’s why Dr. Kelsey Greene and Dr. Stephen Ratcliff prioritize your comfort every step of the way. From the initial consultation to post-extraction care, they ensure you’re informed, supported, and cared for throughout the process.
If you suspect you might need a tooth extraction or have concerns about your oral health, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with Greene & Ratcliff today to take the first step toward a healthier smile.
CONTACT GREENE & RATCLIFF FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY:
817-274-7875
LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):
909 W Mitchell St Arlington, Texas 76013
