Surgery & Replacement
Tooth Extraction
Also called: tooth removal, pulling a tooth
An extraction is the removal of a tooth that cannot be saved or is causing crowding. A simple extraction handles a visible tooth; a surgical one is needed for teeth that are broken or below the gum. Numbing keeps the procedure comfortable.
What to expect
- The area is numbed before the tooth is loosened and removed.
- You bite on gauze afterward and follow care steps to protect the socket.
- Healing takes a week or two, with the first few days being the most tender.
Questions to ask a practice
- Is there any way to save this tooth instead of pulling it?
- What should I do to avoid dry socket while healing?
- What are my replacement options once it heals?
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A routine professional cleaning that removes plaque and tartar to keep teeth and gums healthy.