Dentists sometimes need to extract teeth for a variety of important reasons. Severe tooth decay or damage that cannot be repaired with fillings, crowns, or other restorative methods is one of the most common reasons. Infections that have compromised the tooth beyond what a root canal can treat may also necessitate extraction to prevent the spread of infection. Additionally, teeth may need to be removed to alleviate overcrowding, especially in preparation for orthodontic treatment to properly align the teeth.

 

Impacted wisdom teeth, which can cause pain, infections, or damage to adjacent teeth, often require extraction as well. By removing problematic teeth, dentists help alleviate pain, prevent further oral health issues, and maintain the overall health of the mouth.