A simple tooth extraction is an in-office procedure that can be completed by your regular doctor, involving specialized tools to lift or pull the tooth from its socket. Teeth can be removed much easier than you might think. Teeth are held inside its bony socket by a set of elastic fibers, and your dentist will use a set of specialized tools to gently manipulate the tooth, causing the fibers to loosen and ultimately disconnect. After the tooth is removed, the extraction site may be filled with bone grafting material to minimize shrinkage in the surrounding bone tissue. Teeth that haven’t yet erupted are removed surgically, often with the patient under IV anesthesia to prevent discomfort and trauma. If necessary, the extracted tooth can later be replaced by a dental implant or bridge.

Dental extractions are usually performed when teeth are too badly damaged to be saved, or when leaving a tooth in the mouth will cause more harm than good.

There are four primary reasons why you might need to have a tooth extracted: