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Tooth extractions are the most common surgical procedure performed in the United States. Treatment is relatively quick and pain-free, thanks to modern anesthetics and surgical techniques. At Smile By the Station Dentistry in Seattle, Washington, cosmetic and family dentist Ok Kyu Lee, DDS, and the team offer simple and surgical tooth extractions. Whether you have a severe cavity or need to have a baby tooth removed to complete orthodontic treatment, extractions can help. Call Smile By the Station Dentistry today to schedule an extraction consultation, or book your appointment online.
Extractions Q&A
When are tooth extractions necessary?
The Smile By the Station Dentistry team only recommends tooth extractions as a last resort. Often, tooth damage and decay can be repaired or replaced without further intervention.
Still, your provider might recommend an extraction if you have:
- Severe gum disease
- A fractured tooth
- An impacted tooth (a tooth unable to break through the gum line)
- Crowded teeth
- Severe tooth decay (cavities)
Sometimes, extractions are necessary to treat dental emergencies like loose teeth.
How do I prepare for tooth extractions?
Before recommending tooth extractions, your Smile By the Station Dentistry provider completes an oral exam and takes dental X-rays. They use X-rays to assess the health of your upper and lower jaw bones and to determine the extent of the damage or decay.
Let your dentist know about the vitamins, supplements, and medications you take. Certain drugs can affect the efficacy of oral anesthesia, so it’s important they’re aware.
What do tooth extractions involve?
Tooth extractions are an outpatient procedure that takes 45-60 minutes on average. Depending on the location of your tooth and your symptoms, your provider might suggest:
Simple extraction
During a simple extraction, your dentist uses a tool called an elevator to gently lift your tooth from its socket. Afterward, they loosen your tooth with forceps and carefully remove it from the socket.
Afterward, your dentist cleans and disinfects your empty tooth socket and packs it with gauze.
Surgical extraction
During a surgical extraction, your dentist makes several small incisions along your gum line. They section your tooth into several smaller pieces and remove each piece with dental forceps.
Your dentist cleans and disinfects the empty socket and stitches it closed. They cover the surgical site with gauze and provide care instructions.
What is recovery like after tooth extractions?
After tooth extractions, it’s normal to experience mild pain, swelling, and bleeding. Take your medication as prescribed, follow your dentist’s recovery instructions, and avoid biting down on or chewing with the empty socket for at least a week.
Don’t drink from a straw until your dentist says it’s okay, as this increases the risk of a painful dry socket. You should also avoid smoking. Most people’s mouths heal within 10-14 days, but if your symptoms continue or worsen, contact your provider immediately.
Call Smile By the Station Dentistry today to schedule a tooth extraction appointment, or book your visit online.