Precision Tooth Extraction

We always strive to save your teeth whenever possible. However, in the case of severe decay, infection, or crowding, extraction may be necessary.

We’ll do everything we can to keep you comfortable during and after the procedure, including the option for sedation dentistry if you’re feeling nervous. Contact us to book your appointment today.

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About Tooth Extractions

We want your tooth extraction to be as non-invasive and straightforward as possible.

Our process always starts with educating you about why the extraction is important to your oral and overall health, and an overview of the process and aftercare.

To reduce bone loss after tooth extraction, we can perform a socket preservation bone graft. This process involves placing a bone substitute material in the tooth socket and allowing the area to heal. We’ll book a follow-up appointment to ensure the area heals well.

When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?

Pulling a tooth is one of the last resorts when it comes to your dental health. If other treatments aren’t working, we may recommend tooth extraction in these situations:

Extensive damage due to tooth decay or trauma
A crowded mouth, to make room during orthodontic treatment
Infection of the pulp of the tooth
Risk of infection in immunocompromised patients, such as those going through chemotherapy
Severe periodontal (gum) disease

Does a Tooth Extraction Hurt?

Tooth extractions are performed with appropriate local anesthesia to numb the area thoroughly. You’ll feel some pressure during the extraction.

If you feel nervous about the extraction, you may like to consider our sedation dentistry options to reduce your feelings of anxiety.

What Happens in a Tooth Extraction?

The extraction process begins with numbing the area to avoid discomfort; you may feel pressure during the procedure, but it should be relatively comfortable.

For a simple extraction, your dentist will use a tool to loosen and then remove the tooth. This could take as little as a few minutes, depending on the characteristics of the tooth.

For a surgical extraction when the tooth is not fully erupted from under the gum, your dentist will create a “flap” by making an incision in the gums. They will gently lift the flap to remove the tooth.

Once the tooth is removed, the area is cleaned thoroughly. If needed, the flap is stitched.

Recovery After a Tooth Extraction

Your dentist will thoroughly explain aftercare instructions specific to you following your procedure. By following those guidelines, you may achieve a shorter, more comfortable recovery from your extraction.

Here’s what you can expect after your extraction:

Bleeding at the site of the extraction for about an hour. Your dentist will have placed gauze at the site; leave it in place for an hour. You may change your gauze after the first hour if needed.
If bleeding continues past 4 hours, contact your dentist.
Apply an ice pack to your face for 10 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling during the first day.
Eat soft foods the first day, and introduce harder foods starting day 2 if you’re comfortable.
Soreness or discomfort at the extraction site for about 3 to 5 days.
Brush and floss your teeth as normal, but avoid the extraction site.

Here are important steps to take in the days following your procedure:

Take your pain medication as directed by your dentist; don’t take more than recommended.
Don’t rinse your mouth until 24 hours after the extraction. After that first full day, rinse gently with warm salt water 4–5 times a day for 3–5 days.
Don’t use a straw or smoke for at least a week; the suction can dislodge the blood clot at the extraction site and cause an extremely painful dry socket.
Avoid hot beverages in those first days.
Avoid physical activity for 48 hours after surgery.

Socket Preservation

Your dentist may recommend additional treatment to ensure the shape of your mouth doesn’t change after a tooth is removed. We can do this through socket preservation, a common technique that reduces bone loss after the tooth extraction.

Reducing bone loss is important to help preserve the shape of your jaw line, and keep your remaining teeth straight. Maintaining the space in between your remaining teeth and the shape of your jaw line serves a purpose beyond aesthetics: it also preserves space for a bridge later, if needed.

BONE PRESERVATION

A Smile Awaits You

If you require an extraction, you can be confident that your Sheridan Dental Centre team will fully discuss the process and all options with you before the process begins. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.