TOOTH EXTRACTIONS
What Is a Dental Extraction?
A dental extraction is the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This is typically done when a tooth is beyond saving or is causing issues for your overall oral health. Depending on the condition and position of the tooth, your extraction will fall into one of two categories:
Simple Extraction
For visible teeth that are fully erupted. The dentist loosens and
removes the tooth using specialized tools.
Surgical Extraction
For teeth that are broken, impacted, or have not erupted. This may
involve a small incision in the gum and possibly removing bone around the tooth.
Why Might a Tooth Need to Be Extracted?
Tooth extractions are often a last resort, but sometimes they’re necessary to protect your overall oral health. Common reasons include:
- Severe Tooth Decay or Infection: When a cavity or infection spreads too deep to treat with a filling or root canal.
- Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Advanced gum disease can weaken the tissues and bone supporting the tooth.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth can become stuck or push against neighbouring teeth, causing pain and alignment issues.
- Crowding or Orthodontic Reasons: Removing teeth may be required before starting braces to create space.
- Fractured or Non-Restorable Teeth: n some cases, a broken tooth cannot be saved and must be removed.
What to Expect
Before The Appointment
You’ll have an exam and an X-ray to assess the tooth. We’ll review your health history, discuss medications, and walk you through the procedure. A cost estimate will be provided, and we can send an estimate to your insurance if needed.
During The Procedure
We’ll numb the area completely with local anesthetic. You may feel pressure, but no pain. The dentist will gently remove the tooth, and stitches may be placed if needed. The process usually takes 30–60 minutes.
After The Procedure
AFTER CARE
Caring for the Extraction Site
- Bite on gauze for 30–60 minutes to stop bleeding
- Apply ice packs to your cheek for approximately an hour (5 min on, 5 min off)
- Rest with your head elevated
- Avoid spitting, rinsing, or touching the site
- Take pain meds and antibiotics as directed
Oral Care
- No rinsing or brushing near the site for the first 24 hours
- After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water
- Brush and floss the rest of your mouth as usual — avoid the socket
Eating & Drinking
- Do
- Stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt, applesauce, pudding, soup (not hot), scrambled eggs and mashed potatoes
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid
- Hot foods/drinks, spicy or crunchy foods (chips, nuts, or nachos)
- Alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks
- Smoking (can cause dry socket)
- Forceful spitting or drinking through a straw
When to Call Us
- Bleeding won’t stop
- Pain worsens after 3 days
- Swelling increases after 2 days instead of improving
- Fever, pus, or a bad taste develops
Costs & Insurance
The cost of crowns, bridges, and implants depends on the materials used, the number of teeth involved, and the complexity of the treatment. Before your procedure:
- We’ll provide a full treatment estimate.
- Our team will submit a pre-determination to your insurance provider.
- You’ll receive a breakdown of any out-of-pocket costs.