About Tooth Extraction: Everything you need to know
A dental extraction is the procedure to remove a tooth from your mouth. A dental extraction is most commonly required if one of your teeth is damaged beyond practical repair. The most common reasons for tooth extractions include:
Severe tooth decay or infection may make it impossible or too costly to repair a tooth
Advanced gum disease may required a tooth to be pulled so it doesn’t affect the supporting tissues and bone structures of your mouth
A tooth may be extracted if it is blocking other teeth from coming in
During orthodontic work, teeth may need to be extracted to create room for the teeth that are being moved into place.
Your South Austin dentist will first administer anesthetic to numb the area and reduce discomfort. During the extraction, you will feel the pressure of the tooth being removed, but will not feel any pain. Typically, the dentist is able to remove your tooth within a matter of minutes.
Immediately after the tooth extraction, a small amount of bleeding is normal and patch of gauze will be placed in the affected area. The area may bleed minimally for the next 24 hours or so and taper off after that. Follow your dentist’s instructions on how often to change the gauze, and what other post-procedure steps to follow.
Signs you may need a tooth extraction include severe tooth pain, significant decay that cannot be repaired with a filling or crown, fractured teeth, severe gum disease affecting tooth stability, impacted wisdom teeth, or overcrowding that requires orthodontic treatment. Dr. Sharma will thoroughly examine your tooth and take X-rays to determine if extraction is necessary.
During a tooth extraction, we first ensure you’re comfortable with appropriate anesthesia. For a simple extraction, Dr. Sharma will loosen the tooth with an elevator instrument and then remove it with dental forceps. For surgical extractions, a small incision may be made in the gum tissue. The entire procedure typically takes 20-40 minutes depending on complexity.
At Grand Oaks Dentistry, patient comfort is our priority. We use effective local anesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during the extraction. You may feel pressure during the procedure, but it shouldn’t be painful. For anxious patients, we offer additional sedation options to help you remain relaxed throughout the treatment.
Most patients experience the most discomfort in the first 24-48 hours after extraction. Initial healing takes about 1-2 weeks, during which the extraction site will gradually close. Complete healing of the bone and gum tissue may take several months. Following our post-extraction care instructions will help ensure proper healing.
After an extraction, you should:
Bite on gauze to control bleeding for the first hour
Take prescribed pain medications as directed
Apply ice to reduce swelling
Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using straws for 24 hours
Stick to soft foods for the first few days
Keep the extraction site clean
Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption
Rest and avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours
We offer several options to replace extracted teeth, including dental implants, bridges, and partial dentures. Dental implants provide the most natural-looking and functioning replacement. Dr. Sharma will discuss all options with you and recommend the best solution based on your specific needs and budget.
The cost of tooth extraction varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, whether it’s a simple or surgical extraction, and if any additional treatments are needed. We accept most insurance plans that may cover a portion of the cost. For patients without insurance, we offer flexible financing options through Cherry and Care Credit.
While complications are rare, they can include dry socket (when the blood clot is dislodged), infection, prolonged bleeding, or damage to surrounding structures. Following our aftercare instructions helps minimize these risks. Contact our office immediately if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection after your extraction.
Contact Grand Oaks Dentistry immediately if you experience:
Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medication
Excessive bleeding continuing after 24 hours
Swelling that worsens after 2-3 days
Signs of infection such as fever or pus
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Numbness that doesn’t subside
If you only receive local anesthesia, you should be able to drive yourself home. However, if sedation is used, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. We recommend arranging transportation beforehand if sedation will be part of your treatment plan.
