Tooth Extractions

A tooth extraction is performed only after all alternatives have been considered and ruled out. Situations that may lead to an extraction include:

• Infection or risk of infection from decay (may require emergency tooth extraction)
• A tooth that is severely damaged from trauma (may require emergency tooth extraction)
• Impacted wisdom teeth (results in a wisdom tooth extraction)
• Overcrowded teeth (often requires orthodontic treatment)

Please view our Tooth Extraction Post-Op Aftercare documentation.

After your extraction, your recovery typically takes a couple of days. The following tips will help you relieve discomfort and avoid complications.

• Take pain relievers as prescribed or recommended.
• Leave gauze in place for the recommended amount of time.
• Apply ice for 10 minutes at a time to minimize swelling after the procedure.
• Avoid rinsing, sucking, using a straw, or spitting for 24 hours after the procedure.
• After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with ½ teaspoon of salt and warm water.
• Do not smoke.
• Eat soft foods the day after the extraction; gradually add solid foods as the extraction site heals.
• Avoid the extraction site when brushing your teeth.

When teeth must be removed, especially ones that appear in your smile, there are a number of natural-looking, permanent tooth-replacement options, such as implants, that can give your smile a second chance.