Tooth removal (extraction)

Tooth extraction, also known as dental extraction or tooth removal, is a dental procedure where a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. This procedure is typically performed for several reasons:

1. Decay or Damage: If a tooth is extensively decayed or damaged and cannot be restored with fillings, crowns, or other treatments, extraction may be necessary to prevent further infection or pain.

2. Crowding: In cases where there isn't enough space in the mouth for all the teeth, extraction may be necessary to create space for proper alignment through orthodontic treatment.

3. Impacted Teeth: Sometimes, teeth may become impacted, meaning they are unable to emerge fully through the gums. This often happens with wisdom teeth and can cause pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth, necessitating extraction.

4. Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can weaken the tissues and bone supporting the teeth, leading to tooth mobility and eventual extraction to preserve oral health.

5. Preparation for Orthodontic Treatment: In some cases, teeth may need to be extracted to make room for orthodontic treatment, such as braces, to properly align the remaining teeth.

The extraction process involves numbing the area with local anesthesia to ensure the patient feels little to no pain during the procedure. In more complex cases or for multiple extractions, sedation may be used to help the patient relax. The dentist or oral surgeon then uses specialized instruments to loosen the tooth within its socket and gently remove it.

After extraction, it's essential to follow post-operative instructions provided by the dentist or oral surgeon to promote healing and prevent complications such as infection or dry socket, where the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged prematurely.

In some cases, tooth extraction may be followed by tooth replacement options such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures to restore function and aesthetics.