There are times when it is necessary to remove a tooth. Sometimes it is a baby tooth which has to be removed to make way for the permanent tooth eruption.  Sometimes teeth need to to be removed for orthodontic reasons. Sometimes the tooth has so much decay that it puts the surrounding teeth and jaw at risk. A badly decayed tooth or severe gum disease may cause the tooth to be removed. Once a tooth has been removed, neighboring teeth may shift and cause problems with chewing or jaw function. It is usually wise to replace the extracted tooth with either an implant, a permanent bridge or a removable appliance.