In some cases, a periodontist can save a tooth that has been considered for extraction, particularly when the problem involves gum disease, bone loss, or the tissues supporting the tooth. However, every situation is unique, so the answer depends on why extraction was recommended and how much healthy tooth and supporting structure remain. When removal is necessary, replacement options like dental implants may be used.
A periodontal evaluation provides a specialist assessment of the gums, bone, and other supporting tissues around the tooth. At Pacific Northwest Periodontics in Seattle, WA, patients are examined and treated by experienced specialists like Dr. Darrin Rapoport and Dr. Riccardo Di Gianfilippo. Both are diplomates of the American Board of Periodontology and have advanced training in periodontics and implant dentistry.
Why Might a Dentist Recommend Extraction?
A tooth may become difficult to preserve when decay, fracture, infection, gum disease, or bone loss has significantly damaged it. Sometimes the tooth itself is the primary problem. In other cases, the tooth might still have usable structure, but the gums and bone holding it in place have deteriorated.
That distinction matters because periodontal treatment focuses on the structures supporting your teeth.
How Could a Periodontist Help Save the Tooth?
A periodontist examines the depth of gum pockets, available bone, tooth stability, inflammation, and other factors that influence the tooth’s prognosis.
For periodontal disease, nonsurgical treatment such as scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar below the gumline, helping reduce inflammation and allowing the gums to heal. More advanced disease may require surgical periodontal care, including procedures involving bone or tissue grafting.
In certain restorative situations, crown lengthening exposes more healthy tooth structure so enough tooth remains to support a restoration.
Not every compromised tooth can be saved. A badly fractured tooth, severe decay, advanced bone destruction, or other structural problems may make extraction the more predictable choice.
What Happens When the Tooth Can’t Be Saved?
Needing an extraction doesn’t mean you’ve run out of ways to restore your smile. Dental implants can replace individual teeth by placing an implant into the jawbone and attaching a dental restoration after the implant is ready to support it. Pacific Northwest Periodontics also addresses more extensive tooth loss with implant-supported dentures and All-on-4® treatment.
Get a Periodontal Evaluation Before Making Your Decision
When a tooth’s future is uncertain, understanding the health of the surrounding gums and bone can help you make a more informed decision. The providers at Pacific Northwest Periodontics in Seattle, WA, will assess your periodontal concerns and discuss tooth preservation or replacement when appropriate. Contact us or call 206-575-1086 for an appointment.
