Tooth Extractions

When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?

Your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction for several reasons. Some teeth are too severely decayed to repair, while others may have advanced gum disease or have broken in a way that can't be fixed. Teeth may also need removal if they're poorly positioned in your mouth—such as impacted wisdom teeth—or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

We understand that the idea of losing a tooth can be stressful. That's why we'll always discuss alternatives to extraction first, and if removal is necessary, we'll talk through your options for replacing the tooth to protect your smile and oral health.

Why Tooth Replacement Matters

The removal of even a single tooth can lead to problems with chewing, issues with your jaw joint, and shifting of neighboring teeth. These changes can have a major impact on your dental health over time. In most cases, we'll recommend replacing the extracted tooth to avoid these complications.

What to Expect During Your Extraction

Before we begin, we'll numb your tooth, jawbone, and surrounding gums with a local anesthetic. During the procedure, you'll feel pressure as we gently rock the tooth to widen the socket for removal. The anesthetic blocks pain signals, but pressure sensations still come through—that's completely normal. If you feel any pain at all during the extraction, please let us know right away so we can adjust.

Sectioning a Tooth

Some teeth require sectioning, a common procedure used when a tooth is firmly anchored or has a curved root. We simply divide the tooth into sections and remove each piece one at a time. This makes the process easier and more comfortable for you.

After Your Extraction

After the procedure, you'll need to rest and have someone drive you home. Here's what to expect:

Bleeding: The extraction site will bleed for a little while. We'll apply gauze at the end of your appointment, and you'll need to change it when it becomes soaked. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours, please call our office.

Rest: Take it easy when you get home, but don't lie flat—this can prolong bleeding. Prop your head up on a pillow.

Pain management: We'll prescribe pain medication if needed. You can also use an ice pack to reduce discomfort and swelling.

Cleaning: We may provide a special cleaning solution to keep the extraction site clean as it heals.

What You Can Eat

Stick to soft foods for a few days after your surgery:

• Gelatin and pudding
• Yogurt
• Mashed potatoes
• Ice cream
• Thin soups
• Other foods you can eat without chewing

Important: Don't use a straw when drinking, and avoid smoking. The sucking motion can loosen sutures and slow the clotting process.

If you experience prolonged pain, bleeding, irritation, or feel that the site isn't healing properly, call our office for a follow-up appointment.