Keeping your natural teeth is always our first priority, but there are times when removing a tooth is the healthiest option. Extractions protect surrounding teeth, reduce the risk of infection, and can be a necessary step in restoring function and comfort. Our approach balances careful diagnosis with considerate treatment so that removal only happens when it truly benefits your long-term oral health.
Before recommending an extraction, we review your complete medical and dental history, examine the affected area, and use diagnostic imaging to evaluate the tooth and supporting structures. That evaluation helps us determine whether a tooth can be saved with restorative care or whether extraction is the safest, most predictable solution. Clear communication and patient education are central to every decision we make.
When a removal is advised, we explain the reason, the technique likely to be used, and the options for replacing the tooth if needed. That lets you make an informed choice and helps set realistic expectations for recovery and future care.
Primary (baby) teeth that are holding up permanent tooth development
Sometimes a child’s primary tooth does not loosen on schedule because its roots didn’t resorb or the tooth fused to the jawbone. When a retained baby tooth is preventing an adult tooth from erupting properly or is causing alignment issues, removing it can guide normal development and avoid more complex orthodontic problems later.
Permanently damaged teeth with decay beyond repair
Tooth decay progresses from surface enamel into deeper layers, and in advanced cases the structural integrity of the tooth is compromised. If a tooth has lost too much healthy structure or if the nerve is irreversibly infected and restoration is not a reliable option, extraction becomes the responsible choice to prevent further infection and protect adjacent teeth.
Teeth fractured in ways that preclude restoration
Teeth can crack or fracture in many patterns. When a break extends under the gum line, involves root splitting, or leaves insufficient tooth for a stable restoration, removal may provide the best outcome. We evaluate fracture patterns and discuss alternatives, including possible surgical approaches, to determine the safest route for each patient.
Advanced periodontal disease affecting tooth support
Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that anchors teeth. In advanced stages, the supporting tissues can be lost to the extent that a tooth becomes unstable or causes ongoing infection. In such cases, extraction can help control disease progression and make subsequent restorative or periodontal work more effective.
Wisdom teeth that are impacted, misaligned, or decayed
Third molars often erupt late and may not have room to come in straight. Impacted or poorly positioned wisdom teeth can lead to crowding, infection, or damage to neighboring teeth. Early assessment and timely removal when indicated can prevent pain and more serious complications.
Extractions as part of orthodontic planning
When the jaw lacks space for all permanent teeth, selective extractions are sometimes recommended as part of an orthodontic treatment plan to create room and achieve a balanced, functional bite. These decisions are made collaboratively with orthodontic specialists to align long-term function and aesthetics.
Every extraction begins with a careful plan. We examine the tooth, review your medical history, and use digital radiographs to map roots and surrounding anatomy. That information tells us whether a simple, non-surgical approach will suffice or if a surgical extraction—sometimes involving the removal of a small amount of bone—will be necessary. Your comfort and safety guide every step.
We consider medical conditions, current medications, and any need for antibiotic premedication or medical clearance. It’s important you tell us about all medications and health issues before the procedure. If you have concerns about anxiety, we will discuss appropriate dental sedation options to ensure a calm, controlled experience.
On the day of the procedure, we use local anesthetic to numb the area thoroughly. For more complex cases, oral or conscious sedation may be offered so you remain relaxed while still able to respond to instructions. Throughout the extraction, our team focuses on minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues and preserving bone when possible to facilitate later replacement options.
Simple extractions apply to teeth that are fully visible in the mouth and have accessible root anatomy. Once the area is numb, the dentist gently loosens the tooth and removes it with forceps. The technique is efficient and designed to limit discomfort and reduce healing time. Patients typically experience short-term soreness that improves within days.
We give clear instructions about immediate aftercare, including how to manage bleeding, swelling, and pain, and when to follow up. If sutures are needed to close a small incision, we’ll let you know whether they are resorbable or will require removal at a follow-up visit.
Surgical extractions are used for teeth that are broken at the gum line, impacted, or fused to the bone. These procedures often require an incision in the gum and, at times, the removal of a bit of bone to access and extract the tooth safely. For some patients we coordinate care with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who specializes in these techniques.
Even with more advanced surgical steps, the same priorities apply: effective anesthesia, careful tissue handling, and detailed post-operative guidance to support healing. We discuss the anticipated surgical approach and recovery timeline so you know what to expect and how to plan for the days after the procedure.
Preparation helps make the procedure smoother and recovery quicker. Follow any pre-surgical instructions we provide, including guidelines about eating, medications, and transportation if sedation is planned. If you use blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder, work with your prescribing physician and our team so we can manage any risks appropriately.
Plan a quiet recovery period at home and arrange for someone to drive you if you receive sedation. Bring a list of current medications and any relevant medical information. On the day of the procedure, arrive rested and with questions ready so we can address any last-minute concerns.
We’ll also review replacement options for missing teeth—such as dentures, fixed bridges, and dental implants—so you understand the timeline and next steps for restoring function and appearance after healing.
After an extraction, thoughtful aftercare is the most important factor in a smooth recovery. We provide individualized instructions, but there are universal steps that support healing and reduce complications. Expect some swelling and soreness, which usually peak in the first 48 hours and then gradually improve. Rest, appropriate use of cold packs, and following medication directions are essential.
Pay close attention to bleeding during the initial hours and maintain gentle pressure with gauze as instructed. Avoid actions that can dislodge the clot at the extraction site, such as rinsing forcefully, using straws, or smoking. Keeping the area clean while being gentle with oral hygiene promotes faster, more comfortable healing.
If you notice signs that concern you—markedly increased pain, persistent bleeding beyond 24 hours, fever, or unusual swelling—contact our office for advice so we can determine whether a prompt follow-up is needed.
Maintain gentle pressure with gauze
Bite on the supplied gauze to control bleeding. Replace it as instructed and continue light pressure until the bleeding subsides. A small amount of blood-tinged saliva for 24 hours is normal, but persistent heavy bleeding should be reported.
Protect yourself while numb
The area may feel numb for several hours; avoid chewing or touching lips, cheeks, or tongue to prevent accidental injury until sensation returns.
Follow prescribed medications
Take antibiotics if they are prescribed and complete the full course. Use pain medications as recommended; over-the-counter non-aspirin analgesics can help with mild discomfort, while prescription medications should be taken exactly as directed.
Protect the forming clot
Avoid rinsing vigorously, sucking through a straw, or spitting forcefully during the first day or two. These actions can dislodge the clot and delay healing.
Control swelling with cold
Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face near the extraction site in 10-minute intervals during the first 24 hours to minimize swelling.
Avoid smoking and tobacco
Tobacco use impairs blood clotting and healing. Refrain from smoking for at least a week to reduce the risk of complications.
Choose soft foods and stay hydrated
Stick with cool, soft foods and plenty of fluids in the initial days. Steer clear of hot, spicy, or carbonated beverages until healing progresses.
Resume gentle oral hygiene
Brush carefully around the extraction area and rinse with a mild saltwater solution after the first 24–48 hours to keep the site clean without disturbing the healing clot.
Attend scheduled follow-up
If stitches were placed or if your situation requires monitoring, keep the follow-up appointment so we can check healing and discuss any steps for tooth replacement if appropriate.
If symptoms fall outside the expected recovery pattern—such as increased pain, growing swelling, persistent bad taste, or prolonged bleeding—contact our team for guidance so we can address the issue promptly.
At Contemporary Dentistry, our goal is to combine technical skill with a compassionate patient experience. We prioritize clear explanations, careful planning, and techniques that preserve as much healthy tissue as possible. When extractions are required, we treat each case with the same attention to detail we apply to restorative and preventive care.
We collaborate with specialists when a situation calls for advanced surgical expertise, and we discuss replacement options—such as dentures, fixed bridges, and dental implants—so you can plan the next phase of treatment with confidence. Our team supports you from diagnosis through recovery and any subsequent restorative steps.
In summary, tooth extractions are sometimes the most responsible choice for preserving overall oral health. If you have questions about whether an extraction is necessary, what the procedure involves, or how to prepare and recover, please contact us for more information and guidance.
The most common reasons for tooth loss include advanced periodontal disease, extensive tooth decay, and facial trauma. According to statistics, gum disease is responsible for close to 70% of tooth loss in adults. Although less frequent than the preceding three reasons, it should also be noted that specific diseases, drugs, smoking, and poor nutrition contribute to the risk of tooth loss.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that in the United States, an average of 12 teeth (including the wisdom teeth) are lost by the age of 50. Also, 26% of adults between 65 and 74 years of age have lost all their teeth.
Every patient and every situation is different. However, when a tooth and the surrounding tissues are numbed with a local anesthetic, you should only expect to feel a bit of pressure, but no pain as the tooth is being loosened from the surrounding tissues and extracted. For patients who are apprehensive and for some surgical extractions, our office will discuss our options in dental sedation to provide further relaxation and reduce any sense of discomfort.
While it's normal to feel some tenderness and swelling following an extraction, the degree of these sensations can vary. It mostly depends on the complexity of the extraction and the body's response to the procedure. We'll recommend or prescribe the appropriate pain medication to help ensure your comfort and give you specific instructions for maximum effectiveness and safety.
Typically, the recovery period following a simple extraction is shorter than a surgical extraction. However, a patient's overall health, habits, the size and location of the tooth, and other variables can influence recovery and healing. To speed up the recovery and avoid any complications, patients must follow the given at-home instructions diligently. We'll carefully review what to expect following your procedure and go over your post-op instructions.
Smoking interferes with blood clot formation, which is an essential first step in the healing process. Blood clot formation not only provides a protective layer to cover the underlying exposed bone and nerve endings, but it also supports the growth of new tissue. Cigarette smoke also contains chemical toxins that can disrupt the healing process and lead to problems such as continued inflammation, infection, or dry socket.
In a very small percentage of cases, a condition known as dry socket can develop in the aftermath of a dental extraction. This painful condition can arise when the blood clot in the extraction site doesn't form properly or gets dislodged. With dry socket, you may experience throbbing pain and symptoms such as bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. As skilled providers of care, our office will provide immediate treatment to alleviate your discomfort and promote healing.
The last teeth in your mouth to develop, wisdom teeth often do not have enough room to fully erupt or may be positioned in the wrong direction. These issues can affect your dental health as well as overall wellbeing. While some individuals never develop all their wisdom teeth, and a few have sufficient space for them, there are many people with partially or fully impacted third molars. Our office will monitor the development, position, and health of your wisdom teeth and will advise you if and when extractions are indicated.
After a tooth is removed, bone-grafting material is sometimes placed in the socket to promote healing and encourage new bone development. This procedure is often performed to support the eventual and successful placement of a dental implant.
At the office of Contemporary Dentistry, we strive to make dental care affordable and accessible. Depending on the type or complexity of the extraction and other variables, the cost of the procedure can vary. Based on our diagnostic findings, our office will inform you of the healthiest choices in care, explain the fees, discuss insurance coverage, and explain your payment options.
Many dental plans offer some level of coverage for tooth extractions. We'll advise you if your plan covers the full cost of the procedure and if there is any out-of-pocket expense. Our business office will work with you to maximize your insurance benefits as much as possible while helping you minimize any out-of-pocket expenses.
Keeping a natural tooth is usually the best option, but extraction becomes the most responsible choice when a tooth threatens overall oral health. Common reasons include severe decay that cannot be restored, fractures that extend below the gum line, advanced periodontal disease that compromises support, and impacted or symptomatic wisdom teeth. Extractions are also recommended when a retained primary tooth interferes with permanent tooth eruption or when selective removal is part of orthodontic planning.
Before recommending removal, the dentist evaluates your medical and dental history, performs a clinical exam, and reviews diagnostic images to determine long-term predictability. That assessment helps distinguish between teeth that can be saved and those that are more likely to cause future problems if retained. Clear discussion about risks, benefits, and next steps is part of every treatment decision.
Determining whether a tooth can be saved starts with a thorough exam and appropriate imaging, such as digital radiographs or CBCT when needed, to view the roots and surrounding bone. The clinician assesses the extent of decay, the pattern of any fracture, the health of the pulp and periodontal tissues, and whether restorative options like root canal therapy, crowns, or periodontal treatment would provide a durable solution. The condition of adjacent teeth and overall bite function also factor into the decision.
When restorative care is feasible, the team explains expected outcomes, longevity, and potential complications so you can make an informed choice. If the prognosis is poor or the risk to neighboring teeth is high, extraction may be recommended as the safer, more predictable path. Second opinions or specialist consultations are arranged when cases would benefit from additional expertise.
We perform simple extractions for teeth that are fully erupted and have accessible root anatomy, using forceps after appropriate anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Surgical extractions are used for teeth that are broken at the gumline, impacted, or otherwise difficult to remove; these procedures may involve a small incision, removal of a bit of bone, or sectioning the tooth for safe extraction. Wisdom tooth removal, retained primary teeth, and extractions as part of orthodontic treatment are all managed within this spectrum of care.
Complex or high-risk cases may be coordinated with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who specializes in advanced surgical techniques. Throughout every procedure, we aim to minimize trauma, preserve bone when possible, and plan for future restorative options. Patients are informed about the anticipated surgical approach and recovery expectations before treatment begins.
Preparation begins with a review of your full medical history and current medications so the team can identify any potential risks and coordinate care with your physician if needed. If sedation is planned, you will receive specific instructions about fasting and arranging transportation; for most local anesthetic procedures, normal routines can continue unless otherwise advised. Patients on blood thinners or with bleeding disorders should discuss management with their prescribing clinician and our team before the appointment.
Bring a current list of medications and any recent medical records or imaging that relate to your condition. Plan a quiet period at home for recovery and arrange for someone to drive you if you will be sedated. Arriving with questions and a clear understanding of post-operative instructions helps reduce anxiety and supports a smoother experience.
Local anesthesia is used routinely to numb the area thoroughly so patients feel little to no pain during an extraction, and the effect typically wears off over a few hours. For patients who experience anxiety or require more invasive procedures, options such as oral sedation or conscious sedation may be offered to promote relaxation while maintaining responsiveness. Nitrous oxide may be available in some cases to supplement comfort and reduce anxiety during treatment.
Your medical history and the complexity of the extraction guide safe sedation choices, and the team will review potential side effects and post-sedation instructions. When sedation is used, monitoring and recovery protocols are in place and a responsible adult should provide transportation home. Detailed pre-procedure guidance ensures sedation is administered safely and effectively.
Initial healing usually involves formation of a blood clot in the socket, some bleeding for a few hours, swelling that peaks within 48 hours, and soreness that gradually improves over several days. You will be given instructions to control bleeding with gauze, minimize swelling with cold packs during the first 24 hours, and use prescribed or recommended pain relief as needed. Rest, a soft-food diet, and adequate hydration support a smoother recovery.
Maintain gentle oral hygiene around the extraction site and begin saltwater rinses after 24–48 hours as advised to keep the area clean without disturbing the clot. Avoid smoking, straws, and vigorous rinsing, which can dislodge the clot and delay healing. If sutures were placed, the team will tell you whether they will dissolve on their own or require a follow-up visit for removal.
Reducing the risk of dry socket starts with protecting the forming clot: avoid rinsing forcefully, spitting, sucking through a straw, and smoking for at least a week after the extraction. Follow post-operative instructions carefully, take medications as directed, and use cold packs and elevation in the first 24–48 hours to control swelling and bleeding. Good rest and proper nutrition also support the healing process.
If you experience severe pain that starts a few days after the extraction, an unpleasant taste, or persistent swelling, contact the office promptly so we can assess the site and provide treatment. Early intervention can relieve discomfort and promote proper healing, and the team will outline steps to manage dry socket or other complications if they arise.
Follow-up care depends on the complexity of the extraction and whether sutures were placed; routine checks allow the dentist to confirm proper healing and address any concerns. In many cases a single follow-up visit is scheduled to review healing and remove nonresorbable sutures if needed, while more complex surgical cases may require additional monitoring. Timely follow-up helps ensure the site is healing and that recovery is progressing as expected.
When a tooth is missing, replacement options include removable dentures, fixed bridges, and dental implants, each with different timelines and clinical requirements. We discuss how preservation of bone during extraction and potential socket grafting can affect future restorative choices. Contemporary Dentistry will review the advantages and timeline for each option so you can plan the next steps with confidence.
Extractions can be performed safely for many patients with medical conditions when the dental team is fully informed and coordinates care with the patient's medical providers. It is essential to disclose all medications, including blood thinners, and any systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or bleeding disorders so we can assess risk and obtain medical clearance if necessary. Antibiotic prophylaxis or adjustments to medication may be recommended in specific circumstances based on established clinical guidelines.
The treatment plan is individualized to balance oral health needs and medical safety, and higher-risk cases may be managed in collaboration with a physician or referred to a specialist. Communication among your healthcare providers ensures that any necessary precautions are in place and that the extraction proceeds with appropriate monitoring and follow-up care.
This practice emphasizes careful diagnosis, conservative decision-making, and techniques that preserve as much healthy tissue and bone as possible when extractions are necessary. We combine modern digital imaging and a patient-centered approach to plan procedures that prioritize safety, comfort, and predictable healing while offering appropriate sedation options for anxious or complex cases. Collaboration with oral surgeons and specialists is arranged when advanced surgical expertise is in the patient's best interest.
Clear communication about the reason for extraction, the procedure, expected recovery, and subsequent restorative options is central to our care philosophy. Patients receive individualized aftercare instructions and follow-up to support a smooth recovery and a clear path forward for tooth replacement when needed.