When a Tooth Can Be Saved vs. When It Needs to Come Out

Hearing that something is wrong with your tooth can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure whether it can be repaired or needs to be removed. At Evesboro Dental, our goal as a trusted dentist in Marlton, New Jersey is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are situations where removing a tooth is the healthiest option for your smile and overall well-being.

When a Tooth Can Be Saved

Thanks to modern dentistry, many teeth that once would have required removal can now be restored. If the tooth structure is still strong enough and the surrounding bone and gums are healthy, we often recommend conservative or restorative care.

Common Situations Where a Tooth Can Be Saved

• Cavities and Tooth Decay: Early or moderate decay can usually be treated with fillings or crowns. Even when decay is deeper, restorative dental treatments in Marlton such as crowns can reinforce the tooth and restore its function.

• Infected Tooth Nerve (Root Canal Therapy): If an infection has reached the inner pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be able to save it. This treatment removes the infected tissue, disinfects the tooth, and seals it - allowing you to keep your natural tooth rather than replacing it.

• Cracked or Broken Teeth: Not all cracks mean extraction. Minor cracks or fractures can often be repaired with bonding, crowns, or other restorative dental treatments in Marlton, protecting the tooth from further damage.

• Worn or Weakened Teeth: Teeth weakened by grinding, erosion, or large old fillings may still be saved with crowns or other restorations that strengthen and protect them.

Situations That May Require Tooth Extraction

While saving a tooth is always preferred, there are times when removal is the safest and most effective option. Delaying extraction in these cases can lead to pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth.

• Severe Tooth Decay: When decay has destroyed too much of the tooth structure and it can no longer support a restoration, a tooth extraction in Marlton may be necessary.

• Advanced Gum Disease: Severe periodontal disease can cause teeth to loosen due to bone loss. If the tooth no longer has adequate support, extraction may be the best way to protect your oral health.

• Dental Abscess or Uncontrolled Infection: If an infection cannot be resolved with root canal therapy or has spread extensively, removing the tooth may be necessary to prevent further complications.

• Impacted or Problematic Teeth: Teeth that are impacted, overcrowded, or causing alignment issues - such as certain wisdom teeth - may need to be removed to prevent future problems.

What Happens After a Tooth Is Removed?

If a tooth extraction in Marlton is required, replacing the missing tooth is often recommended to maintain proper bite alignment and prevent shifting. Options may include dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures, depending on your individual needs. Our dentist will walk you through all available solutions so you can make an informed decision about restoring your smile.

Find Out the Best Option for Your Tooth

Every dental situation is unique, and deciding whether a tooth can be saved or needs to come out depends on many factors, including the extent of damage, infection, and overall oral health. At Evesboro Dental, we carefully evaluate each case and prioritize treatments that support long-term comfort, function, and health. Whether you need restorative dental treatments in Marlton or a tooth extraction, you can trust that your care is guided by experience, precision, and your best interests.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, damage, or infection, schedule a dental exam at Evesboro Dental to help you determine the best path forward. Visit our office in Marlton, New Jersey, call (858) 925-7073, or book an appointment online today.