A tooth extraction is the permanent removal of a tooth from its socket and may be done manually using forceps or surgically. Extraction is recommended when the tooth cannot be saved with other treatments such as root canal treatment and to prevent infection from spreading to other areas of your mouth. It may also be performed to extract extra teeth. Your dentist may recommend pulling a tooth if there is severe tooth decay that affects the underlying nerve, an infected tooth that does not respond to antibiotics or root canal therapy, improperly positioned or overcrowding of teeth, tooth trauma causing irreparable damage, problematic wisdom teeth, and if gum disease is present and causing loss of bone and tissue supporting the tooth.