Do we really need to extract all these teeth?

Carma,
Dentists vary a lot in their commitment to saving teeth. Saving a tooth can be hard, and can make some dentists nervous because it may not work. But, in my opinion, an excellent dentist, when it is possible, will try to save a tooth.

The short answer to your question is that there is no risk to your health to save good teeth. If you were my patient, I would work with you to extract any teeth that are hopeless but treat your gum disease in an attempt to save as many of your teeth as possible. If you end up with fewer than 17 teeth present in your mouth, it would be a good idea to have the missing teeth replaced. That will reduce the stress on the remaining teeth and prolong their life.

I will say that if your dentist does try to save your teeth, it will be important for you to have a commitment to saving them. It will undoubtedly require good home care and keeping up with your dental appointments. It sounds like you must have advanced periodontal (gum) disease, so you will probably need a deep cleaning from a dental hygienist skilled in treating periodontal disease. That will need to be followed by having what is called periodontal maintenance, probably every three months. Periodontal maintenance involves keeping the teeth and their roots thoroughly cleaned from accumulated tartar, along with careful monitoring. For home care, you will need to brush and floss faithfully.

– Dr. Hall

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