The Importance of a Pre-Extraction Exam

Removal of a single tooth can materially alter the configuration of your mouth. The way you eat can be significantly impacted. If the dental issue was not properly diagnosed, the condition may worsen in conjunction with ancillary complications. A proper dental exam will thoroughly assess the condition of the mouth and identify the best way to resolve interrelated or layered issues. This is also your opportunity to address any questions or concerns you may have.

In the course of a conventional exam, your mouth will be inspected for cavities, gingivitis and oral cancer. You may have x-rays or similar analyses performed to identify signs of additional irregularities. Your mouth will be assessed to determine if disease or decay pose an imminent threat. The dentist or hygienist will give you tips on any areas where your oral hygiene is insufficient. He or she will inquire about your general health and the nature of any ailments you may have. If you do have other ailments, the dentist will ask about how they are being treated and if you are taking any medicine for them. It’s important that you answer honestly. Your responses will be incorporated in your treatment plan.

If a tooth is identified as decaying or damaged, your dental professional will determine if extraction is the best course of action. Depending on the extent of the damage, repair may be an alternative. Without a preliminary dental exam, a tooth could be removed unnecessarily.

Legitimate conditions that warrant extraction include pervasive decay or disease and situations where there is not room in the mouth for an incoming tooth. Sometimes teeth are extracted because they are so misaligned that they are useless. Ancillary medical issues could warrant the removal of a tooth. Patients with radiation treatment to the head or neck may develop heightened risk of tooth decay which could result in extraction. Individuals being treated for ancillary ailments may also have a compromised immune system. Additionally, people who have received organ transplants may be more at risk for infection as some of their prescribed medicine may reduce the effectiveness of the immune system.

Patients may not know what information is pertinent to a potential dental procedure. Therefore, they may not be forthcoming with relevant information, particularly if it’s embarrassing or sensitive in nature. For this reason, a dental exam and patient inquiry must precede a tooth extraction. The dentist will know the relevant questions to ask. He or she will also be able to properly assess if an extraction is required. Click here to learn more information on teeth extraction in Apex and to schedule a dental exam.