What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or more teeth from the mouth. It sounds more intense than it usually is. Most extractions are straightforward and completed in a single visit.
There are a few different reasons someone might need one:
- A tooth is severely decayed or infected beyond saving.
- A tooth has cracked or broken due to decay or facial trauma.
- Teeth need to be removed to make room for dentures or orthodontic treatment.
- Impacted teeth below the gum line are pushing other teeth out of alignment.
- Wisdom teeth are causing pain, crowding, or other complications.
Once we’ve confirmed an extraction is necessary, we numb the area so you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. You won’t feel pain, but you will likely feel some pressure as we carefully loosen and remove the tooth from its socket. After the tooth is out, we clean the area, place gauze to control bleeding, and close the site with sutures if needed. You’ll leave with clear aftercare instructions and a follow-up appointment to make sure everything is healing well.
After Your Extraction: What Comes Next
Recovery from a tooth extraction is usually smooth when you follow the aftercare guidance we send home with you. Swelling, mild soreness, and some bleeding in the first day or two are normal. Keeping the area clean and avoiding anything that might disturb the clot are the main priorities early on.
Once healing is complete, many patients start thinking about what to do with the gap left behind. Dental implants are one of the most popular long-term options because they restore both function and appearance without relying on neighboring teeth. We can walk you through your options at your follow-up visit or at any point during your care.
If an extraction is needed because of gum disease or an infection that’s spread to the surrounding tissue, periodontal maintenance may also be part of your treatment plan going forward to keep the remaining teeth stable and healthy.
When to See Us Sooner
Some situations call for faster attention. A tooth that’s badly infected can worsen quickly, and waiting too long can limit your options. If you’re dealing with sudden or severe pain, visible tooth damage, or swelling that seems to be spreading, our emergency dentistry services are available to get you seen and treated without delay.
Reaching out early gives us more to work with. In some cases, what feels like an inevitable extraction can still be addressed with other treatment if we catch it in time.
About Our Practice
Dr. Liz Closurdo leads care at Webster Family Dental, focusing on thorough, honest dentistry. Our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth when possible, and when an extraction is necessary, to make the process as comfortable and clear as possible from start to finish.
We serve patients throughout the Webster Groves area, and our office is easy to find. If you’re a new patient or haven’t been in for a while, our in-house membership plan is worth a look as a straightforward way to manage your dental care costs.
Get the Relief You’ve Been Putting Off
If you’ve been dealing with tooth pain, a damaged tooth, or have been told you may need an extraction, there’s no reason to keep waiting. Contact us, and we’ll get you scheduled, answer your questions, and make sure you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.
