How it's performed: Tooth extraction. A tooth extraction is a dental procedure during which your tooth is completely removed from its socket. * First, local anesthesia is given to numb your affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue. * Using specialized dental instruments, your dentist will gently loosen your tooth and carefully lift it from its socket. * Sometimes, your dentist might need to make incisions in your gums to access your tooth — especially if your tooth is badly decayed or has broke