Dental extractions are a common procedure performed to remove a tooth that may be damaged, decayed, or causing other dental issues. Whether it’s due to overcrowding or severe infection, dental extraction is sometimes the best solution for maintaining oral health.

What Is Dental Extraction?

Dental extraction is the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the bone. This procedure is often performed by a dentist or an oral surgeon, depending on the complexity of the case. There are two main types of extractions: simple and surgical.

Simple Extraction

A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is visible above the gumline. The dentist uses specialized tools to loosen the tooth and remove it.

Surgical Extraction

Surgical extraction is more complex and is used for teeth that are not easily accessible, such as impacted wisdom teeth or teeth that have broken off at the gumline. This procedure may involve making an incision in the gum tissue and removing the tooth in sections.

When Is a Dental Extraction Necessary?

Several situations may require dental extraction, including:

• Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth is beyond repair with fillings or crowns.
• Gum Disease: Advanced periodontal disease can loosen teeth, necessitating removal.
• Overcrowding: Sometimes, teeth need to be removed to create space for orthodontic treatments.
• Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth often become impacted and require surgical extraction.
• Infection: Teeth with deep infections may need removal if root canal therapy is not an option.