The removal of a tooth by a professional is called a dental extraction. There are numerous situations in which an extraction can help alleviate pain or prepare you for another cosmetic or restorative procedure. Some common reasons for extraction include:

• Advanced periodontal disease that has loosened the tooth roots
• Extra teeth or baby teeth that impede adult teeth
• Preparing a patient for orthodontic treatment (braces)
• Removing a fractured or malformed tooth
• Severe tooth decay which cannot be remedied with root canal therapy