I chose a holistic dentist because I figured I would get healthier options for preventing problems with my teeth or for treating them. 3 weeks ago I went to a holistic dentist because of a horrible toothache I’ve had over a month. I had been putting off getting dental treatment because I was afraid of what might be recommended. Typically I have so many reactions to medications and chemicals that I was hesitant about getting antibiotics. A friend suggested her holistic dentist and it sounded like a good idea. Well, the dentist did an exam and told me that she needed to extract my tooth. I was shocked, but my pain level was so high that I couldn’t argue with her. So now that the tooth is healing, the dentist is talking about a dental implant. Another friend of mine that also had a horrible toothache had her tooth saved with a root canal treatment. Are holistic dentists against root canal treatment? If so, I think I should switch back to a regular dentist before I have any more problems with my teeth. I don’t think extracting a tooth just because it hurts is the answer. Thanks. Keturah J.
Keturah – Holistic dentists are not necessarily against root canal treatment. Although Dr. Krutchik would have needed to examine your tooth before it was extracted, there are several reasons that extraction might be the best option.
Why a Holistic Dentist Might Have Extracted Your Tooth
1. Advanced Decay
Root canal treatment is not usually performed for tooth decay. But when decay is advanced, sometimes a tooth can’t be saved. In those cases, even a holistic dentist would extract your tooth.
2. Trauma
A badly broken tooth can sometimes be saved with a root canal treatment and crown. But if the break has damaged tooth roots or is too extensive to restore, it will be extracted.
3. Improper Eruption
A tooth that erupts in the wrong position can cause other teeth to shift. It can even damage nearby teeth. It’s often best to extract the tooth rather than to allow it to damage other teeth. A holistic dentist will do what’s best for your overall oral health.
4. Orthodontic Treatment
Some orthodontists extract teeth to allow room for proper tooth alignment. This can occur when a patient’s jaw is too small for proper tooth alignment.
If your holistic dentist extracted your tooth, it’s unlikely that it could be saved. It’s best to speak with her and ask for details on why the tooth was extracted.
This post is sponsored by West Seneca, NY dentist Warren M. Krutchick, DDS.