General dentists can and do perform tooth extractions, particularly “simple extractions” where the tooth is visible above the gum line and can be removed with forceps. They regularly handle extractions for teeth that are severely decayed, fractured beyond repair, or crowded. Before the procedure, they use local anesthesia to ensure the patient feels only pressure rather than pain. However, some cases are more complex and fall outside the typical general practice scope. If a tooth is “impacted”, meaning it is stuck under the bone or gum tissue, which is common with wisdom teeth, or if the roots are hooked or close to a nerve, the general dentist may refer the patient to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This ensures that the most difficult cases are handled by a specialist equipped for more intensive surgical techniques and sedation.