After all other options have been explored, Dr. Scott C. Suntrup would recommend a tooth extraction only in the most extreme of cases where another method of saving the tooth is not available.
For example, if a tooth’s roots are damaged beyond repair, traditional restorative methods like root canal therapy would be impossible, necessitating the extraction of the traumatized tooth to maintain the overall health of the mouth.
For example, many dentists recommend the extraction of impacted wisdom teeth. While the teeth may not initially cause physical discomfort, the angle of impacted wisdom teeth can cause problems with adjacent teeth and can create inflammation and irritation as they continue to emerge. In severe but rare cases, wisdom teeth that are impacted can actually develop cysts that have the potential to weaken or damage the bone in the jaw; in these situations, extraction will be necessary.