Extractions may be done by a general dentist or an oral surgeon. Many teens and adults get their wisdom teeth removed, however, there can be several other reasons why a tooth may require being extracted.
If a tooth has extensive decay, abscess or fractured, it may not saveable and will require to be removed.
Periodontal disease (referred to as gum disease) can also play a major factor if a tooth needs to be extracted.
If the gums are not healthy “pockets” can develop leaving a space between the tooth and gum. When this happens food can get caught in these areas and over time bone loss can happen as well as mobility with the tooth itself. With severe bone loss and mobility, there may be no option available to save the tooth which would result in an extraction.