EXTRACTIONS

An extraction is the removal of a tooth. An extraction is done when a tooth has become so severely damaged that it cannot be restored. At this point one risks getting an infection inside the jawbone that surrounds the tooth that can lead to bone loss and serious infections and swelling. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.