SIMPLE EXTRACTION With a simple extraction, we will give the patient a local anesthetic to alleviate any pain. Then we will use a pair of forceps to grip the impacted tooth and loosen it from the jawbones and the ligaments which hold it in place. The socket that holds the tooth must be widened and enlarged to separate the tooth from the ligaments. A device called a dental elevator, a screwdriver-like tool, is placed between the tooth and gum to make it easier to remove the tooth by expanding the socket.   SURGICAL EXTRACTION Wisdom teeth or teeth not visible above the gum line, such as severely broken teeth or teeth with long, curved roots require a more complex surgical extraction. General anesthesia is often used on the patient prior to the procedure. To obtain access to the impacted tooth, the dentist may need to cut through bone, gums, and tissue. Sometimes, Dr. Cantu will need to cut the tooth in pieces in order to fully remove it.