Extractions

Teeth may need to be removed for various reasons, such as extensive decay, advanced gum disease, trauma, infection, malposition, or to relieve crowding. Extractions are usually classified as simple or surgical. A simple extraction usually involves loosening the affected tooth with an instrument called an elevator, then removed with a dental forcep. Surgical extractions are more invasive, due to teeth that severely broken or impacted. Commonly, an incision is made to move away gum tissue and bone is removed to expose more of the tooth. It is normal to have some pain and swelling after an extraction, which generally improves after about one week. Complex extractions, such as deep impactions may require referral to a specialist (oral surgeon) for treatment.