What Is a Tooth Extraction and Who Performs One?
A tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. It may involve making an incision in the gum tissue, drilling into the tooth, or removing surrounding bone to safely complete the removal. Extractions are performed by licensed general dentists and oral surgeons, depending on the complexity of the case.
Who Performs Tooth Extractions?
Two types of dental professionals are licensed to perform tooth extractions:
- General Dentists — A licensed general dentist has completed a dental degree at an accredited university and is trained to perform routine and many surgical extractions in a clinical setting.
- Oral Surgeons — An oral surgeon is a specialist who has completed a dental degree and then undertaken an additional hospital residency of four to seven years, followed by passing the Royal College of Dental Surgeons examination. Oral surgeons handle complex cases that go beyond the scope of general dental practice.
At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dentists assess each patient’s situation carefully and refer to an oral surgeon when a case requires specialist care.
Common Reasons a Tooth May Need to Be Extracted
1. Tooth Infection (Decay or Abscess)
Tooth decay — commonly called a cavity — is caused by bacteria breaking down tooth structure. This is clinically known as dental caries. When decay advances deep into the tooth and reaches the pulp (the living tissue containing nerves and blood vessels), the tooth may require either a root canal treatment or an extraction to eliminate the source of infection.
Similarly, an infection can develop in the gums and surrounding supportive tissues, forming an abscess. In these cases, extraction may be necessary to remove the cause of the infection and prevent it from spreading. This type of infection is related to periodontal (gum) disease, and you can learn more about how it is managed through our periodontal care services.
2. Unrestorable Tooth
When a tooth has been damaged beyond what modern dentistry can reliably repair — whether due to extensive decay, a severe fracture, or structural compromise — a dentist may determine that the tooth is unrestorable. This means that attempting to save the tooth with a crown, filling, or other restoration is no longer a viable or predictable option, and extraction is the most appropriate course of treatment.
3. Overcrowding
In some cases, a tooth may need to be removed to address crowding in the mouth, particularly before orthodontic treatment. Removing a tooth creates space that allows remaining teeth to be guided into proper alignment.
4. Impacted or Problematic Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth — the third molars — are among the most commonly extracted teeth. When they are impacted (unable to fully erupt through the gum), positioned incorrectly, or causing pain and crowding, removal is often recommended. Learn more about wisdom teeth removal in Calgary NW and what the procedure involves.
5. Dental Emergency
In some dental emergencies — such as a severely broken tooth, acute abscess, or trauma — an extraction may be required promptly. If you are experiencing sudden tooth pain or oral trauma in the Calgary area, our team offers emergency dental care and can assess whether an extraction or alternative treatment is needed.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?
Your dentist will begin by taking a clinical examination and reviewing digital X-rays to assess the tooth’s position, root shape, and surrounding bone. A local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area before the procedure begins. Depending on the complexity:
- Simple extractions involve loosening and removing a visible, erupted tooth using dental instruments.
- Surgical extractions may involve making an incision in the gum, removing bone tissue, or sectioning the tooth to facilitate removal.
Patients who experience dental anxiety may benefit from sedation options. Expressions Dental in Calgary NW offers nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and other sedation options to help patients feel calm and comfortable throughout their procedure.
What Comes After a Tooth Extraction?
Once a tooth is removed, your dentist will discuss options for replacing it — particularly if the extracted tooth was visible or load-bearing. Leaving a gap unfilled can cause neighbouring teeth to shift over time, affect your bite, and impact bone density in the jaw. Common tooth replacement options include:
- Dental implants — A permanent, natural-feeling replacement anchored into the jawbone.
- Dental bridges — A fixed restoration that spans the gap using adjacent teeth for support.
- Partial dentures — A removable option suitable for replacing one or more missing teeth.
Book a Tooth Extraction Consultation at Expressions Dental Calgary
If you have been told you may need a tooth extracted, or you are experiencing tooth pain and are unsure of your options, the licensed dental team at Expressions Dental in Calgary NW is here to help. We take the time to explain your diagnosis, discuss all available treatment options, and ensure you feel confident and comfortable before any procedure begins.
Call us today or request an appointment online — new patients are always welcome at Expressions Dental, your trusted family dental clinic in Calgary NW.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. The procedure may involve a local anaesthetic, an incision in the gum, or the removal of surrounding bone, depending on how complex the case is. It is performed by a licensed general dentist or, in more complex situations, an oral surgeon.
When is a tooth extraction necessary?
A tooth extraction may be necessary when a tooth is severely decayed, infected, fractured beyond repair, or causing crowding issues. It may also be required for impacted wisdom teeth or in certain dental emergencies. Your dentist will always explore options to save the tooth before recommending extraction.
What is the difference between a general dentist and an oral surgeon for extractions?
A licensed general dentist has completed a university dental degree and is trained to perform many types of extractions. An oral surgeon is a specialist who has completed additional hospital-based training for four to seven years and passed the Royal College of Dental Surgeons examination, qualifying them to handle the most complex surgical cases.
Is a tooth extraction painful?
The procedure itself should not be painful, as local anaesthetic is used to numb the area thoroughly before the extraction begins. You may feel pressure or movement, but not sharp pain. After the anaesthetic wears off, some soreness and swelling are normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and your dentist's aftercare instructions.
Do I need to replace a tooth after it is extracted?
In most cases, yes — particularly if the extracted tooth was a permanent tooth that is visible or plays a role in chewing. Leaving the space empty can cause neighbouring teeth to shift, affect your bite, and lead to bone loss in the jaw over time. Options such as dental implants, dental bridges, or partial dentures can restore function and appearance.
Can I go to an emergency dentist for a tooth extraction in Calgary NW?
Yes. If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, a broken tooth, or an abscess, Expressions Dental offers emergency dental care in Calgary NW. Our licensed dental team will assess your situation promptly and determine whether an extraction or an alternative treatment such as a root canal is the appropriate next step.
Are there sedation options available for tooth extractions?
Yes. If you feel anxious about having a tooth extracted, Expressions Dental in Calgary NW offers sedation options including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you feel relaxed and comfortable during your procedure. Ask our team which option may be suitable for you when booking your appointment.