Tooth Extractions

What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction involves removing a tooth that isn't restorable or is causing problems for your oral health.

The Greenhill Family Dental Care team does everything possible to preserve your natural teeth, but sometimes removing a damaged, infected, or crowded tooth is the healthiest and safest option.

Why might I need a tooth extraction?

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

• Severe decay
• Advanced gum disease
• Cracked teeth
• Failed root canals
• Overcrowding

All these issues can make extraction necessary. Sometimes a tooth is so damaged that restoring it would not be reliable in the long term. In these cases, removing the tooth can protect your overall oral health and prevent complications.

Will tooth extraction hurt?

To make the process as easy as possible, Greenhill Family Dental Care uses the Wand. This advanced anesthetic delivery system provides gentle, precise numbing without the discomfort of a traditional syringe.

Most patients feel pressure during the procedure, but no pain. The Wand often helps people feel more relaxed and makes the numbing process nearly unnoticeable.

What happens during a tooth extraction procedure?

Once the area is completely numb, your dentist gently loosens the tooth and removes it. If the tooth is impacted or broken, they may need to take small additional steps, but the process remains comfortable thanks to the Wand and your dentist’s careful technique.

After the extraction, they insert gauze into the hole to control bleeding and provide detailed home-care instructions.

What should I expect after a tooth extraction?

Mild swelling or tenderness is common for the first couple of days after tooth extraction. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually manage discomfort well.

You’ll want to avoid drinking through straws, smoking, or eating hard foods until the area begins healing. Within a week or so, most patients feel significantly better.

Do I need to replace the extracted tooth?

In most cases, yes. When a tooth is missing, the teeth surrounding the gap can shift, affecting your bite, appearance, and long-term oral health. The Greenhill Family Dental Care team reviews several tooth replacement options with you, including:

• Dental implants
• Natural-looking bridges
• Removable dentures
• Implant-supported dentures

Replacing the tooth helps maintain proper alignment and supports a healthy, functional smile.

Schedule an evaluation with Greenhill Family Dental Care if you think an extraction might be necessary. Call the office or request an appointment online today.