Tooth extraction is one of the simplest and most effective ways to relieve dental pain. As the name suggests, extraction involves the removal of a tooth. If the dental pulp has died or the tooth has become severely infected, extraction may be the only option. Depending on the type of tooth, the dentist may perform either a simple extraction or a more complex surgical procedure.
Today, tooth extractions—whether simple or complex—are performed with minimal discomfort thanks to modern anesthetics and advanced techniques. In the past, extractions were often associated with painful experiences, but technological advancements have made the process relatively painless. After extraction, it is important to take proper care of the extraction site to avoid what is known as a "dry socket"—a condition where the blood clot protecting the wound dissolves or becomes dislodged. This can cause intense pain and delay the healing process.
Interestingly, in some cases, extracted teeth can be replaced with implants—artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone and provide a solid foundation for new, long-lasting teeth. This process offers a long-term solution for tooth loss and often helps restore not only the function of the teeth but also the aesthetic appearance of the smile.
Simple Extraction
This type of extraction, known as a simple extraction, is the most common procedure in the world of dentistry. During a simple extraction, the dentist removes the tooth by loosening the gum around the socket. They grip the tooth with forceps and gently rock it back and forth until it is loosened from the socket and removed.
Teeth are attached to the jawbone by a thin piece of soft tissue known as the periodontal ligament. The dentist takes advantage of this ligament to extract the tooth. As you may know, the key to removing a tooth by pulling is to rock it side to side, which enlarges the socket in the bone and tears the ligament that helps hold the tooth in place.
Simple extractions, also referred to as tooth pulling, don’t take long. The dentist will numb you beforehand, so you won’t feel anything. Depending on the tooth, the extraction usually takes just a few minutes once the local anesthesia has taken effect. After the procedure is done, the dentist will place gauze in your mouth for you to bite down on, and then you’ll be free to go.
Surgical (Complex) Extraction
As we all know, not every tooth can be pulled easily. Sometimes a tooth is so decayed or fractured that the dentist won’t have anything to grip above the gum line. In such cases, the dentist will need to perform a more complex surgical extraction, which involves removing the tooth from below the gum line, since the standard method of pulling and rocking won’t be effective.
For these types of extractions, the dentist will make an incision in the gum around the tooth and lift the cut flap to expose the bone. Once the bone is revealed, enough of the tooth may become visible for the dentist to grip and remove it. However, in most cases, the tooth will be embedded in the bone, which means the dentist won’t be able to pull it out directly.
For teeth that are anchored in the bone, the dentist will need to use a drill to remove some of the surrounding bone in order to access the tooth. This procedure is known as tooth sectioning and is very common with impacted or severely decayed teeth. Once the dentist accesses and removes the tooth, the gum flap will be sutured back in place. The flap and the socket will heal over time—provided you take proper care of the area.
Prevention
Prevention of tooth extractions is increasingly becoming a central focus of modern dentistry. Regular check-ups, professional cleanings, and proper oral hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of dental infections and cavities—common causes that often lead to extractions. In some cases, a tooth can be saved through root canal treatment or a crown, helping to avoid the need for removal altogether.
Conclusion
Tooth extractions are very common procedures performed by dentists every day. Oral surgeons are often the best choice for extractions, as they specialize in these procedures. All types of extractions, even the most complex ones, require time to heal.
If you take proper care of the extraction site, you can avoid common complications such as dry socket and other issues. While the procedure may be uncomfortable, you’ll likely feel much better afterward once the problem tooth or teeth have been removed.