What Are Tooth Extractions?
Tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. This may be necessary for a variety of reasons, including severe tooth decay, advanced periodontal disease, overcrowding, or trauma. In some cases, a tooth may need to be extracted before orthodontic treatment, such as braces, to make space for the remaining teeth to align properly. Wisdom teeth, the third set of molars that often emerge during late adolescence or early adulthood, are another common reason for extractions, especially if they become impacted or cause infection.
The extraction procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, where the area around the tooth is numbed, or, in more complex cases, general anesthesia may be used. The dentist or oral surgeon will carefully loosen the tooth from the socket and remove it, taking care to minimize damage to the surrounding gum tissue and bone. After the extraction, patients are advised to follow proper aftercare instructions to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing. This may include avoiding hard foods, applying ice to reduce swelling, and taking prescribed pain relievers. In some cases, a follow-up appointment may be scheduled to ensure the area is healing properly. For missing teeth, a dental implant, bridge, or denture may be recommended as a long-term solution.
