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At Alliance Surgical Center we understand how hesitant dental patients can be about tooth extractions. This is oral surgery and requires time for the area to heal after the procedure. We want to help make sure this procedure is simple and painless. Learn more about the extraction process, including when it is needed and what to expect in recovery, by reading below.

When Are Tooth Extractions Necessary?

A tooth extraction is required when a tooth cannot be restored or salvaged. This is typically the case when the tooth has suffered from severe decay or severe damage, like the tooth breaking. If a tooth cannot be salvaged through a dental filling, dental crown, or root canal, then an extraction is necessary.

Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth, often called third molars, can be a real hassle for some patients. These teeth are located in the very back corners of the mouth. They can often grow out of place, making it difficult to speak or chew because they collide with each other. Also, since they are in the far reaches of the mouth, it may be difficult to brush and floss them properly. It is often recommended to have these removed before they begin causing problems.

Should the Tooth Be Replaced After Extraction?

In the event that the tooth must be removed for any reason, it can be replaced with a dental implant or dental bridge. These options ensure that the smile remains beautiful and that the oral functions, like speaking and chewing, remain intact. Sometimes teeth do not need to be replaced. This primarily applies to wisdom teeth.

What Does the Tooth Extraction Procedure Involve?

Our surgical facilities in Houston allow patients to receive oral or IV sedation dentistry, which puts them to sleep during their tooth extraction. The entire process includes the shots needed to numb the tooth and gums, the pulling of the tooth, and the covering up of the surgical area to help with the bleeding. More details about what the procedure will involve will be discussed with each patient before surgery, allowing our dentists to address any questions or concerns that may arise. After the procedure, patients will need to arrange for someone to drive them home as the sedation gradually wears off.

What Can I Expect in the Tooth Extraction Healing Process?

Healing from a tooth extraction typically takes up to two weeks before patients feel mostly back to normal. Minor bruising, swelling, and bleeding may all occur in the beginning of the recovery process. These side effects are normal and should significantly fade over the course of the first couple days. Within this time, patients may want to eat soft and cool foods to avoid irritating their surgical sites. To reduce swelling, ice packs can be applied to the face for 20 minutes at a time.

Patients should avoid smoking, using straws, and spitting for about three days after surgery, as these actions can lead to a dry socket. This painful condition occurs when the blood clot never forms or it is broken before the area has adequately healed. Our dentists will provide more specific post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.

How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost?

The cost of removing a tooth will vary for every patient based on multiple factors. This includes the sedation method used, number of teeth to be extracted, expertise of the surgeon, and geographic location of the practice. A personalized cost quote will be provided once the surgical plan has been established.