What does enucleation refer to in dental practice?

Enucleation in dental practice refers to the complete removal of a tissue or lesion, which is accurately captured by the answer provided. This procedure is typically employed to remove cysts or tumors, ensuring that the entire pathological tissue is excised to prevent recurrence or further complications. It involves carefully dissecting and removing the tissue without leaving any remnants behind.

This is crucial in dental care, particularly when dealing with lesions that may pose risks to the patient’s health or contribute to dental issues. Understanding this term helps dental professionals recognize the significance of complete removal in treatment plans and patient care.

The other options pertain to different dental procedures. For instance, the removal of a tooth refers specifically to tooth extraction, while cleaning of the oral cavity involves oral hygiene practices such as brushing and scaling. Filling in cavities refers to restorative techniques used to treat tooth decay, which is also distinct from enucleation.