Glossary

Tooth Extractions Glossary

Important terms for understanding tooth extractions — from the types of extractions and reasons teeth are removed to post-operative care and healing.

Simple Extraction

Removal of a tooth that is visible above the gumline.

Surgical Extraction

Removal of a tooth that is impacted, broken below the gumline, or requires an incision in the gums.

Crowding

To create space for orthodontic treatment.

Gum Disease

When gum disease has loosened a tooth or damaged the supporting bone.

Impacted Tooth

When a tooth (often a wisdom tooth) fails to erupt properly.

Infection

When an infection has spread to the tooth pulp or surrounding tissues.

Severe Decay

When a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling or crown.

Trauma

When a tooth is broken or fractured beyond repair.

Alveoplasty

Smoothing and recontouring the jawbone after an extraction.

Anesthesia

Medication used to numb the area and prevent pain during the extraction.

Elevation

Using a dental instrument to loosen the tooth before removal.

Forceps

Instruments used to grasp and remove the tooth.

Incision

A cut made in the gums to access a tooth that is not fully erupted.

Sectioning

Dividing a tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal.

Dry Socket

A painful condition that can occur if the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged.

Gauze

Used to control bleeding after the extraction.

Ice Pack

Applied to the face to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Pain Medication

Prescribed or over-the-counter medication to manage pain.

Sutures (Stitches)

Used to close the gums after a surgical extraction.

Alveolar Bone

The bone that surrounds and supports the teeth.

Edentulous

Lacking teeth.

Hematoma

A collection of blood outside of a blood vessel.

Trismus

Limited jaw opening or lockjaw.