A dental extraction (also referred to as exodontia) is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. The most common reason for an extraction is tooth damage due to breakage or decay. Additional reasons for an extraction of a tooth include: severe infection of a tooth, severe gum disease, teeth which cannot be restored endodontically (root canal), fractured teeth, extra teeth, and teeth requiring removal for orthodontic treatment. After having a tooth extracted, our dentists recommend the patient rest for 12 - 24 hours, over-the-counter pain management, and the patient not drinking through a straw, spitting or smoking for at least 24 hours.
