Our Services / Tooth Extractions

What are tooth extractions?

A tooth extraction is a type of oral surgery that removes one (or several) teeth. There are various reasons you might need a tooth extraction, including deep decay, crowding, oral trauma, and impaction. By pulling a severely damaged or decaying tooth, it’s possible to preserve your smile and reduce the risk of additional complications.

How do I prepare for tooth extractions?

Before recommending tooth extractions, your Gables Family Dental provider conducts an oral exam and reviews your dental health history. 

If you have an underlying medical condition that increases your risk of an infection, like a congenital heart defect or kidney disease, let your provider know. These issues won’t prevent you from undergoing extractions, but the team might prescribe antibiotics beforehand.

What are the types of tooth extractions?

At Gables Family Dental, the team offers several types of tooth extractions, including:

Simple tooth extractions

If your tooth is easy to access and above the gum line, your provider does a simple extraction. They numb your mouth with a local anesthetic, gently loosen your tooth with forceps and remove it.

Surgical tooth extractions

If you have an impacted tooth that’s unable to break through the gum line, your provider might recommend a surgical extraction. During a surgical extraction, your provider numbs your mouth and makes a small incision over your tooth.

They split your tooth into several pieces and then remove each piece one at a time. Then, they stitch the incision closed and fill the socket with clean gauze.

Are tooth extractions painful?

No. Tooth extractions are safe and usually well-tolerated. To ensure your comfort, the team at Gables Family Dental offers both local anesthesia and inhaled sedation with nitrous oxide.  

What is recovery like after tooth extractions?

After tooth extractions, it’s normal to experience some swelling and increased tooth sensitivity once the anesthesia wears off. To encourage your body’s healing process, the team recommends:

• Using a desensitizing toothpaste
• Eating only soft foods
• Avoiding extremely hot or extremely cold foods
• Avoiding extremely spicy foods
• Brushing and flossing gently

In addition, avoid drinking from a straw for at least a week to reduce the risk of a painful dry socket.

To explore the benefits of tooth extractions, make an appointment at Gables Family Dental by calling the nearest office today, or scheduling online.