You’re visiting the dentist for a checkup and things are going well—that is, until your dentist informs you that you’re going to need a tooth extracted soon! A small knot forms in your stomach as you picture a pair of forceps being guided towards your mouth. But you have absolutely nothing to worry about; your dentist won’t remove any of your teeth without a good reason. That said, here’s what you need to know about tooth extraction, why it’s sometimes necessary, and why it’s no reason to panic!