Tooth Extraction

If you have a problematic tooth, an extraction may help relieve pain and restore your oral health.

Gloved-hand-of-dentist-holding-extracted-tooth

What Is Tooth Extraction?

Sometimes, a tooth needs to be removed to keep your mouth healthy. This is called tooth extraction. It's like taking out a puzzle piece that doesn't fit anymore. Your dentist might recommend this if a tooth is badly damaged, has a deep cavity, or is causing other problems in your mouth that can't be fixed any other way.

There are two main ways we can take out a tooth. If the tooth is visible in your mouth, we can often remove it in a simple procedure. But if the tooth is hidden under your gums or has broken, we might need to do a slightly more involved surgical procedure.

Taking out a problem tooth can make a big difference in how you feel. It can stop pain, prevent infections from spreading, and even make room for other teeth to grow properly. If your mouth is overcrowded or you're getting braces, removing a tooth might be part of the plan. We also remove wisdom teeth if they're causing trouble.

Is Tooth Extraction Right For Me?

Only a dental professional can determine if extraction is necessary after a thorough examination. Tooth extraction might be recommended if you:

Have severe tooth decay that can't be treated with a filling or crown
Suffer from advanced gum disease that has loosened your teeth
Have a fractured tooth that can't be repaired
Experience crowding in your mouth and need space for orthodontic treatment
Have impacted wisdom teeth causing pain
Have a tooth infection that hasn't responded to root canal therapy
Are dealing with severe pain from a specific tooth
Have teeth that are blocking other teeth from coming in

What To Expect

During a tooth extraction, your comfort is our priority. We'll start by numbing the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic, ensuring you won't feel pain during the procedure. For a simple extraction, your dentist will use special tools to gently loosen the tooth and remove it from its socket. If you need a surgical extraction, we may make a small incision in your gum to access the tooth. In some cases, the tooth might need to be removed in pieces. The entire process usually takes between 20-40 minutes, depending on the complexity of the extraction.

After The Procedure

Recovery after a tooth extraction typically takes a few days. You might experience some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs. We'll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, including how to care for the extraction site, what foods to eat, and activities to avoid. It's important to follow these instructions carefully to promote healing and prevent complications like dry socket. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two, but full healing of the socket can take several weeks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a tooth extraction take?

A simple extraction usually takes 20-40 minutes. Surgical extractions may take longer, depending on the complexity of the case.

Is tooth extraction painful?

You shouldn't feel pain during the extraction thanks to local anesthesia. After the procedure, some discomfort is normal but can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long is the recovery period after a tooth extraction?

Most patients can return to normal activities within 1-2 days, but complete healing of the socket can take several weeks.

What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

Stick to soft foods and liquids for the first few days. Avoid hot foods, alcohol, and drinking through a straw, which can dislodge the blood clot.

When can I brush my teeth after an extraction?

You can brush your teeth the night of the extraction, but avoid the extraction site. Gentle salt water rinses can be started 24 hours after the procedure.

Will I need stitches after a tooth extraction?

Not always. Simple extractions rarely require stitches. Surgical extractions often do, and these are usually dissolvable.

How soon can I get a dental implant after an extraction?

it's best to wait 3-6 months for the area to heal completely.

What is dry socket and how can I prevent it?

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged. Prevent it by avoiding smoking, drinking through straws, and following all post-operative instructions.

Can I drive myself home after a tooth extraction?

If only local anesthesia was used, you should be able to drive. If sedation was involved, you'll need someone to drive you home.

How much does a tooth extraction cost?

Costs vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and your insurance coverage. We can provide a detailed estimate after your initial consultation.