Extractions

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. If you are facing a tooth extraction, it can seem a little daunting and nerve-wracking. But we would like to reassure you that this is a fairly standard dental procedure.

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

In many cases, teeth that are broken or damaged by decay can be fixed with a filling, crown, or other dental treatment. Sometimes, though, the damage is too severe to repair, so your dentist will recommend extraction.

• Decay has reached deep into the tooth
• The tooth or the surrounding bone is infected
• There isn't enough room for all the teeth in your mouth
• Extra teeth block other teeth from coming in
• The teeth are crooked and room is needed for the teeth that will grow or that may be moved into place through orthodontic treatment
• There may not be enough space for your wisdom teeth, also known as third molars

There are two types of extractions you might have:

1. A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that can be seen in the mouth. It’s common for a general dentist to perform simple extractions. During a simple extraction, your dentist will numb the tooth and gum tissue and loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator before removing it with dental forceps.
2. A surgical extraction is a more complex procedure that is used for a tooth that may have broken off at the gumline or has not come into the mouth yet. Oral surgeons usually perform surgical extractions. However, they can also be done by general dentists. During a surgical extraction, the doctor will make a small incision (cut) into your gum and remove the underlying tooth. Sometimes they will need to remove some of the bone around the tooth or cut the tooth in half to extract it.