Reasons for tooth extraction among patients in Sebha, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya: a pilot study.

We investigated the causes of tooth extraction among patients in Sebha in southern Libyan Arab Jamahiriya. A total of 600 patients who had undergone tooth extraction were surveyed. We found more males (68%) than females had had teeth extracted and also patients with no education (53%). Caries and periodontal disease were the main causes of tooth extraction. For those patients who opted for tooth extraction over other treatment, they mostly did so for financial reasons. There was generally poor oral hygiene and oral knowledge, which should be tackled.