Should You Extract Decayed Teeth Before Orthodontic Treatment? - Dentistry

More Info

---

When considering orthodontic treatment, one of the critical factors to evaluate is the condition of your teeth, especially if you have decayed teeth. If a tooth is severely decayed, to the point where only the crown remains, extraction may be necessary before starting orthodontic treatment. Here’s a detailed explanation of why this is important and how to approach the situation.


The Importance of Addressing Decayed Teeth Before Orthodontics
1. Health of Surrounding Teeth: If a tooth is decayed, it can affect the health of adjacent teeth. Bacteria from the decayed tooth can spread, leading to further decay or gum disease, which can complicate orthodontic treatment. By extracting the decayed tooth beforehand, you can help ensure that the surrounding teeth remain healthy.

2. Orthodontic Alignment: Orthodontic treatment aims to align your teeth properly. If a decayed tooth is left in place, it may not respond well to the forces applied during orthodontic treatment. This can lead to misalignment and may require additional adjustments later on, potentially prolonging the treatment time.

3. Space Management: Extracting a decayed tooth before starting orthodontics allows for better space management. If the tooth is removed, the orthodontist can plan the movement of the remaining teeth more effectively, ensuring that the overall alignment and bite are improved.

4. Preventing Future Complications: Leaving a decayed tooth in place can lead to complications such as abscesses or infections, which can not only cause pain but also delay or halt orthodontic treatment. By addressing the decay first, you reduce the risk of these complications.


Timing of Extraction
- Before Orthodontic Treatment: It is generally advisable to extract decayed teeth before starting orthodontic treatment. This allows the orthodontist to create a treatment plan that takes into account the new space created by the extraction. It also gives your mouth time to heal from the extraction before braces or aligners are placed.

- After Orthodontic Treatment: In some cases, if the decay is not severe and the tooth can be monitored, an orthodontist may choose to proceed with treatment and extract the tooth later. However, this is less common and typically not recommended, as it can lead to the issues mentioned above.


Consultation with Your Orthodontist
Before making any decisions, it is crucial to have a thorough consultation with your orthodontist. They will assess the condition of your teeth, including the decayed ones, and recommend the best course of action. If extraction is necessary, they will coordinate with your dentist to ensure that the extraction is done safely and effectively.


Conclusion
In summary, if you have a tooth that is decayed to the point of being mostly gone, it is generally best to extract it before starting orthodontic treatment. This approach helps maintain the health of your mouth, allows for better alignment of your teeth, and prevents future complications. Always consult with your orthodontist and dentist to make informed decisions tailored to your specific dental health needs.