Extractions
At Smile By The Station Dentistry, we perform both simple and surgical tooth extractions to address various dental issues. Our experienced team uses modern anesthetics and surgical techniques to ensure a quick, pain-free experience for severe cavities, gum disease, fractured teeth, impacted teeth, crowded teeth, and dental emergencies.
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Benefits of Extraction
Tooth extraction, while a last resort, offers several significant benefits:
- Provides immediate relief from dental pain
- Prevents spread of infection to surrounding teeth
- Eliminates severely damaged or decayed teeth
- Creates space for orthodontic treatments
- Removes wisdom teeth to avoid complications
Why Choose Us
Advanced Techniques
We use the latest extraction methods for minimal discomfort and faster healing.
Comprehensive Assessment
Our team conducts thorough pre-extraction evaluations to ensure the best approach.
Pain Management
We prioritize your comfort with effective anesthetics and sedation options.
Clear Instructions
We provide detailed post-operative care guidelines for a smooth recovery.
What To Expect
Consultation
We’ll examine your tooth and discuss the extraction process with you.
Anesthesia Administration
We’ll ensure you’re comfortable with local anesthesia or sedation.
Tooth Removal
We’ll carefully extract the tooth using specialized tools and techniques.
Post-Extraction Care
We’ll place gauze over the extraction site and provide immediate aftercare.
Recovery Instructions
We’ll explain how to care for the extraction site at home.
Prep & Aftercare for Dental X-rays
Preparation:
- Provide a complete medical history, including medications and allergies.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home if you’re receiving sedation.
- Avoid eating or drinking for 8 hours before the procedure if under general anesthesia.
Aftercare:
- Bite gently on gauze pads to control bleeding and allow a clot to form.
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and take prescribed pain medications as directed.
- Eat soft foods, avoid smoking, and don’t use a straw for at least 24 hours.
FAQs
How long does the extraction procedure take?
Simple extractions usually take 20-40 minutes, while surgical extractions may take up to 60 minutes.
Will I feel pain during the extraction?
Due to anesthesia, you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure, but you may feel pressure or pulling sensations.
How long is the recovery period?
Most patients can return to normal activities within 48-72 hours, but complete healing takes about 1-2 weeks.
Tooth extractions are the most common surgical procedure performed in the United States. Treatment is relatively quick and pain-free, thanks to modern anesthetics and surgical techniques. At Smile By the Station Dentistry in Seattle, Washington, cosmetic and family dentist Ok Kyu Lee, DDS, and the team offer simple and surgical tooth extractions. Whether you have a severe cavity or need to have a baby tooth removed to complete orthodontic treatment, extractions can help. Call Smile By the Station Dentistry today to schedule an extraction consultation, or book your appointment online.
Extractions Q&A
When are tooth extractions necessary?
The Smile By the Station Dentistry team only recommends tooth extractions as a last resort. Often, tooth damage and decay can be repaired or replaced without further intervention. Still, your provider might recommend an extraction if you have:
- Severe gum disease
- A fractured tooth
- An impacted tooth (a tooth unable to break through the gum line)
- Crowded teeth
- Severe tooth decay (cavities)
Sometimes, extractions are necessary to treat dental emergencies like loose teeth.
How do I prepare for tooth extractions?
Before recommending tooth extractions, your Smile By the Station Dentistry provider completes an oral exam and takes dental X-rays. They use X-rays to assess the health of your upper and lower jaw bones and to determine the extent of the damage or decay.
Let your dentist know about the vitamins, supplements, and medications you take. Certain drugs can affect the efficacy of oral anesthesia, so it’s important they’re aware.
What do tooth extractions involve?
Tooth extractions are an outpatient procedure that takes 45-60 minutes on average. Depending on the location of your tooth and your symptoms, your provider might suggest:
Simple extraction
During a simple extraction, your dentist uses a tool called an elevator to gently lift your tooth from its socket. Afterward, they loosen your tooth with forceps and carefully remove it from the socket. Afterward, your dentist cleans and disinfects your empty tooth socket and packs it with gauze.
Surgical extraction
During a surgical extraction, your dentist makes several small incisions along your gum line. They section your tooth into several smaller pieces and remove each piece with dental forceps.
Your dentist cleans and disinfects the empty socket and stitches it closed. They cover the surgical site with gauze and provide care instructions.
What is recovery like after tooth extractions?
After tooth extractions, it’s normal to experience mild pain, swelling, and bleeding. Take your medication as prescribed, follow your dentist’s recovery instructions, and avoid biting down on or chewing with the empty socket for at least a week.
Don’t drink from a straw until your dentist says it’s okay, as this increases the risk of a painful dry socket. You should also avoid smoking. Most people’s mouths heal within 10-14 days, but if your symptoms continue or worsen, contact your provider immediately.
Call Smile By the Station Dentistry today to schedule a tooth extraction appointment, or book your visit online.
