Extractions, commonly referred to as tooth removal, are dental procedures performed to remove severely damaged, decayed, or problematic teeth that cannot be saved through other means. These may include teeth affected by advanced decay, infection, trauma, or crowding. The extraction process involves numbing the area with local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort, followed by carefully loosening the tooth from its socket using specialized instruments and gently removing it from the mouth. Extractions may be simple, where the tooth is easily accessible and can be removed with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues, or surgical, requiring an incision in the gum tissue and sometimes bone removal to access the tooth.

While extractions may be necessary to alleviate pain and prevent further complications, such as infection or damage to neighboring teeth, they are always considered a last resort after all attempts to save the tooth have been exhausted. Following an extraction, patients are provided with post-operative instructions to promote healing and prevent complications, such as avoiding vigorous rinsing, using ice packs to reduce swelling, and taking prescribed pain medication as needed. Depending on the location and condition of the extracted tooth, options for tooth replacement, such as dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures, may be discussed with the patient to restore function and aesthetics.