Our office views tooth extraction as a last resort. But when a tooth becomes too heavily damaged to be repaired, or when an orthodontist calls for the removal of a tooth, it is required. If tooth decay extends to the pulp or center of the tooth bacteria can infect it. The infection could be corrected with a root canal or antibiotics but that failing an extraction becomes necessary.

Before pulling the tooth we will inject a local anesthetic. The dentist, using forceps, grasps the tooth and gently rocks it to loosen it. Sometimes, hard-to-pull teeth are removed in pieces. The patient gets instructions on how to avoid discomfort and on how to help plug the socket in a natural process of quick recovery.