Why are teeth removed?

The various reasons for tooth removal are irreparable tooth decay, tooth infection, crowding and impacted wisdom tooth. Those who get braces may need one or two tooth extractions to give space for their other teeth as they shift into place. Also, those who are undergoing chemotherapy or are about to have an organ transplant may need compromised tooth removal to keep their mouth healthy.
Tooth extraction is performed by a dentist or an oral surgeon and is a fairly quick procedure with either local, general, intravenous anesthesia, or a combination. Removing fully visible teeth is a simple extraction. Teeth that are broken, below the gums, or impacted undergo a further invasive procedure for their removal.

How to prepare for a tooth extraction

Before scheduling the procedure, your dentist will take an X-ray of your tooth. Be sure to inform your dentist about any specific medications you take, as well as vitamins and supplements. Inform your dentist if you'll soon be treated for another medical condition with an intravenous medicine called bisphosphonate. However, the extraction should be done before the medical treatment, or your jaw could be at threat of osteonecrosis (bone death).

What's the procedure for a tooth extraction?

Your tooth extraction will either be simple or surgical, depending on whether your tooth is visible or impacted.

Simple Extraction

You will be administered a local anesthetic, which numbs the area around your tooth so you will feel only pressure, not pain, during the procedure. The dentist also uses an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth and forceps to remove it.

Surgical Extraction

You will probably be administered both local anesthesia and intravenous anesthesia, the combination of which makes you calm and relaxed. You may also be administered general anesthesia, depending on any medical conditions. With general anesthesia, you'll remain unconscious during the procedure.

The general dentist or oral surgeon will cut into your gum with a small incision. They may need to remove bone around your tooth or cut your tooth before it can be uprooted.