Dental Extractions

Common reasons include: severe decay that has destroyed too much tooth structure, a cracked tooth that extends below the gumline, advanced gum disease with significant bone loss, an infected tooth that can’t be treated with a root canal, impacted wisdom teeth, teeth that are too crowded (for orthodontic purposes), and baby teeth that haven’t fallen out on their own.

The extraction itself should not hurt. The area is fully numbed with local anesthesia before we begin, so you’ll feel pressure but not pain. After the numbing wears off, some soreness and swelling is normal for a few days and is managed effectively with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs. We also offer sedation for anxious patients.

A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth hasn’t fully erupted (impacted) or has broken off at the gumline. It involves a small incision in the gum and sometimes removing a small amount of bone to access the tooth. Despite sounding complex, surgical extractions are routine procedures that we perform regularly.

Most patients feel significantly better within a few days. Initial soft tissue healing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, though full healing varies by individual. During recovery, stick to soft foods, avoid using a straw (the suction can dislodge the blood clot), don’t smoke, and follow the aftercare instructions we provide. This helps prevent dry socket and promotes faster healing.

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves too early, exposing the underlying bone. It causes significant pain and delayed healing. To prevent it: avoid smoking, don’t use straws, don’t spit forcefully, avoid vigorous rinsing for the first 24 hours, and follow all aftercare instructions carefully.

In most cases, yes. A missing tooth (except wisdom teeth) can cause neighboring teeth to shift, affect your bite, and lead to jawbone loss. We’ll discuss your replacement options—dental implants, bridges, or dentures—and help you choose the best solution based on your situation and budget.

A simple extraction typically costs $150 to $300, while a surgical extraction ranges from $250 to $500, depending on complexity. Most dental insurance plans cover extractions. If a bone graft is placed at the time of extraction (to preserve bone for a future implant), that is an additional cost. We provide a full estimate before any procedure.