Extractions

Our dentist makes every effort to preserve your natural teeth. However, extractions are necessary when decay or a fracture has made your tooth unsalvageable or when you have too advanced periodontal disease. All extractions are considered surgery. If a tooth is buried under the gums (impacted) we will need to refer you to an oral surgeon. Depending on which tooth is removed, we can offer you a replacement in the form of a dental implant (by referring you to a specialist) or oral prosthetic (fixed or removable).

FAQs About Tooth Extractions

Do I need my tooth extracted?

There are a few reasons why your tooth may need to be extracted. Some reasons include a tooth infection, decay and/or a fracture deeming a tooth nonrestorable, or preparing for a complete denture.

What should I expect during an extraction procedure?

We administer a local anesthetic so that you don’t feel anything sharp, but you will feel some pressure. Our dentist has to apply pressure to the tooth she’s extracting to compress the bone surrounding the tooth so that she can then wiggle it out. We provide a bite block if you’d prefer to keep your jaw stable during the procedure.

How long is the healing process?

It can take up to 2 weeks for the gums to heal over an extraction site and up to 6 months for the bone to fill in the bony socket.