What's that Word? Dental Jargon from A to Z: E is for Extraction

A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth (also commonly called pulling a tooth).  Both dentists and oral surgeons often perform extractions.

Substantially decayed or infected teeth and third molars/wisdom teeth (particularly impacted teeth) can be extracted.  Teeth are often extracted during  orthodontic treatment in order to create space in the mouth.  Baby teeth are also extracted if they are preventing causing misalignment in a new permanent tooth.

Note: Although they are not permanent, is important to protect baby teeth from decay so they can serve as placeholders, facilitating the proper emergence of permanent teeth.  They are also important so a child has adequate chewing surfaces during a time of great growth and development.  Unless a dentist determines that a baby tooth needs to be removed, it should be allowed to remain in the mouth and fall out naturally as the child ages.  

  

A simple extraction is the removal of a tooth that can be easily accessed by a dental professional.  A surgical extraction is the removal of a tooth that is difficult to access, usually because it is not fully erupted or has broken under the gum line.  Local anesthetics are used for simple extractions and general anesthetics are used for surgical extractions.  Teeth may also be extracted in small sections.

Simple Extraction  

Surgical Extraction of Third Molar / Wisdom Tooth (Right)

Edentulous (Lacking Teeth) Space Left Post-Extraction

If the tooth was not extracted because it is not a baby tooth, third molar/wisdom tooth, or causing crowding, an implant, bridge, partial denture, or denture may be among future treatment options considered by the dentist in order to avoid the medical and aesthetic problems that can arise from having spaces lacking teeth in the mouth.

Bleeding, swelling, bruising, nerve injury, dry socket, infection, and soreness may result from extraction.  It is not advisable to drink with a straw, use tobacco products, eat hard foods, or floss/brush the area around the extraction in the 24 hours following the extraction.  Gently gargling with a saltwater solution or gently biting on gauze may be advised.  Dentists often give information about how to care for the extraction site after the extraction.