An over-retained deciduous tooth, commonly known as a "baby" tooth, can become severely decayed or damaged. Typically, baby teeth fall out naturally as permanent teeth emerge. However, in some cases, a baby tooth remains attached to the bone. This can happen if the roots don't shrink properly or if the tooth becomes fused to the bone. Keeping baby teeth for too long can interfere with the development and alignment of your child's smile. As we monitor your child's dental growth, we’ll advise if and when a baby tooth should be removed to allow proper eruption of the permanent tooth.

If a tooth is severely decayed and cannot be saved, it may need to be removed. Neglecting small enamel damage can lead to more serious issues, such as nerve damage and infection, which can have a negative impact on oral health. In these situations, seeking advice from an emergency dental professional can help prevent additional problems.

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often present challenges due to their positioning, impact on neighboring teeth, or decay. These are the last permanent teeth to emerge and often have limited space to grow properly, leading to complications such as improper growth, decay, or crowding. While older individuals may also need extractions, problematic wisdom teeth are usually recommended for removal in young adults to prevent future issues.

A tooth that has suffered a severe fracture or crack may also require extraction if the damage is too extensive. The type of chip, crack, or fracture determines whether enough tooth structure remains to save it. If the damage is too significant, especially to the root, extraction may be necessary.

In cases where teeth are too large for the jaw, overcrowding and misalignment can occur. A lack of space in the upper or lower jaw for permanent teeth can affect the alignment and functionality of your bite. As part of orthodontic treatment, the removal of some permanent teeth may be necessary to achieve a healthy, properly aligned smile.