Sometimes a tooth is so badly damaged or decayed that it cannot be saved. In these cases, removal through a procedure called dental extraction may be the best option. At Precision Implant & Oral Surgery, we make sure you understand each step of the process and provide detailed recovery instructions so you can heal comfortably and confidently.

WHY EXTRACT A TOOTH?

There are several reasons why a tooth may need to be removed, including:

• DECAY: Severe tooth decay, sometimes linked to gum disease, can weaken a tooth beyond repair. 

• INFECTION: Infected teeth, particularly those that are not able to be saved with root canal treatment from an endodontist (root canal specialist), must be extracted to resolve the infection.

• OVERCROWDING: When teeth are crowded, they can cause pain, misalignment, or make it difficult to keep your mouth clean and healthy.

• IMPACTION: An impacted tooth is one that does not fully erupt through the gums, or only partially does. This is most common with wisdom teeth.

• INJURY: A broken, fractured, or badly damaged tooth may not be able to be saved, and removal may be the safest option.

In many cases, an extracted tooth can be replaced with a dental restoration to restore function and appearance.

WHAT TO EXPECT

At Precision Implant & Oral Surgery, we perform all types of extractions. The most common types of extractions (excluding wisdom teeth) are: 

• Simple extractions are done when the tooth is visible and easy to remove. The tooth is gently loosened and then pulled without needing to cut into the gums.

• Surgical extractions are needed when a tooth is not visible, broken, or must be removed in sections. This procedure may involve making a small incision in the gum and carefully removing the tooth with specialized instruments or lasers.

For your comfort, we offer general anesthesia, administered by our CRNA, Brett. After the tooth is removed, the site will be cleaned, sutured if needed, and covered with gauze to help stop bleeding and support healing.

RECOVERY AND NEXT STEPS

After an extraction, it’s normal to experience some tenderness and swelling for a few days. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication can help keep you comfortable as you heal.

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If you’ve had one or more teeth removed, we can also create a personalized plan to restore your smile. Dental implant option can bring back both natural appearance and full function. During your consultation, Dr. Bulloch will explain the best treatments for your specific needs.