Tooth Extractions

At Smile Perfection we understand that having a complete, natural smile is key to feeling confident in your daily life. We also know that on occasion, circumstances may arise that require a patient to receive a routine or emergency tooth extraction in order to preserve overall oral health. As your Tucson, AZ, dentist, Sharad Pandhi, D.D.S., knows that the decision to extract can be a difficult one, so he makes sure that every aspect of the procedure is as stress-free and comfortable for our patients as possible by keeping you well informed, aware of what is happening, and aware of what your choices are along the way.

When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?

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)

What Is a Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction is a routine procedure for Sharad Pandhi, D.D.S., though in some instances, an emergency tooth extraction may be called for. The procedure includes:

    • X-rays to assess the location, size, and position of the tooth to be removed to help determine the extent of the procedure
    • An assessment of the anesthesia and sedation options that will best serve your needs, allowing for a pain-free, less-than-memorable experience
    • The careful removal of the tooth, which often includes a bone-preserving graft

After the tooth has been removed, Sharad Pandhi, D.D.S. will have you bite down on some gauze in order to help stop the bleeding, so that a blood clot can form.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

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.