![a set of teeth with a discolored tooth](https://www.virginiadentalcenter.com/sites/default/public/education-videos/simple-extraction-cut-sheet/Image_002.jpg)
When a tooth has become so extensively decayed or damaged that it cannot be saved, your dentist may recommend extracting it.
![a tooth being pulled from the top row](https://www.virginiadentalcenter.com/sites/default/public/education-videos/simple-extraction-cut-sheet/Image_004.jpg)
In a simple extraction, your tooth is removed without surgery. Your dentist applies slight pressure with a specially designed instrument to gently and gradually ease the tooth from the socket.
![a temporary tooth being placed](https://www.virginiadentalcenter.com/sites/default/public/education-videos/simple-extraction-cut-sheet/Image_006.jpg)
Once the tooth has been removed, your dentist will clean the area so the healing process can begin. While you are healing, your dentist can fit you with a temporary tooth.
![an area ready for a new tooth](https://www.virginiadentalcenter.com/sites/default/public/education-videos/simple-extraction-cut-sheet/Image_008.jpg)
When the area has sufficiently healed, your dentist will discuss treatment options to permanently replace the extracted tooth.
Copyright © 2016 Spear Education. All rights reserved.