What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is the complete removal of a tooth. You may need this procedure because of an infection or disease, to prepare for orthodontic work, or to remove a baby tooth that is blocking eruption of a permanent tooth.

A tooth extraction is often done by an oral surgeon. During the procedure, you will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area. The tooth will be removed with dental instruments. After the extraction, you will most likely have a blood clot.

When is an extraction necessary?

In some cases, a tooth can be too damaged to be repaired or restored. Fortunately, modern dental techniques and sedation options can make extractions relatively painless.

Teeth with broken or fractured roots or that have been extensively decayed or infected may need to be extracted to avoid further issues. If a tooth has extensive decay, the decay may be close to the tooth’s nerve, making the root canal difficult. A dentist may recommend extraction in this case.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a procedure that removes infected pulp from inside the tooth. The pulp is soft tissue that can become inflamed or infected. When this occurs, the pulp needs to be removed. This treatment prevents infection from spreading to other parts of the body.

A root canal is performed under local anesthesia. While the tooth is numb, the dentist removes the infected pulp and fills the tooth with a rubber-like material. The tooth is then covered with a dental crown to protect it from further damage.

When is a root canal necessary?

A root canal is the treatment that removes the pulp - the soft tissue in the center of the tooth - when it becomes infected. Teeth can become infected from a deep cavity, a crack in the tooth, or an injury. The infected pulp will need to be removed, and the tooth will need to be sealed with a crown.

Some patients worry that a root canal will feel similar to getting a filling, but it’s actually a much more complex procedure. While a filling takes only 15 to 30 minutes, a root canal takes 90 minutes to 2 hours.

A root canal is performed under local anesthesia, so patients shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. However, some patients experience some soreness in the days following a root canal. This soreness can be treated with over-the-counter medication.

What alternatives to tooth extractions are available?

- Dental bonding

- Dental veneers

- Tooth-colored fillings

- Dental crowns

- Dental implants

- Extraction

Tooth extraction is a last resort, but sometimes it’s necessary to permanently remove a tooth.

- Dental bonding. This tooth restoration procedure involves applying a resin-based composite to the tooth. The tooth is shaped and sculpted, and a special light is used to harden the material. This restores the appearance and function of the tooth.

How do I know if my tooth needs to be extracted?

If your tooth is severely decayed, infected, or injured, it may need to be removed. You may also need an extraction if your tooth is impacted. Impacted teeth do not grow normally, so they cannot be corrected with orthodontics. An impacted tooth may need to be extracted before your dentist can create a treatment plan to correct the problem.

What are the risks of an extraction?

Some teeth have deep, large roots that are difficult to keep clean and healthy, and are often subject to decay and infections. In these cases, removing a tooth may be the best option. Before removing a tooth, your dentist will discuss your options for replacing the tooth, including bridges and dental implants.

What happens

When a tooth needs removal, the most common reasons include:

- Severe decay or infection

- A tooth that can’t erupt out of the gums (impaction)

- Crowding or misalignment

- Damage to a tooth

- A tooth that’s impacted (wedged between teeth)