Specialists for Tooth Extraction in Phoenix, AZ

Tooth Extractions

As dentists we are trained to always look at every possible option for saving your natural teeth, and pulling teeth is never our first choice. Unfortunately, however, that’s not always possible. In those cases, we will perform an extraction.

In order to save an adult tooth, we may consider using fillings and sealants, or if there’s nerve damage, a root canal may be an option. But if decay extends too deeply under the gum, severe periodontal disease is present, the tooth is cracked, or an infection cannot be resolved, a tooth extraction is recommended as the best option.

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Specialists for Tooth Extraction in Phoenix, AZ

Tooth Extractions

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This Guide Will Include

Step-By-Step Overview
Common Procedures
Common Questions
And More...

What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?

Contrary to popular belief, getting a tooth pulled is typically a painless procedure. The area is completely numb so while the patient may feel some pressure during the procedure, there’s no pain. To bust another myth related to extraction, dentists do not actually “pull teeth.” In reality, the tooth is gently nudged with pressure until the ligaments holding the tooth in place give up and the tooth comes out automatically.

Most people have minimal discomfort following a tooth extraction, but every person is unique and responds differently to the procedure. It also depends on where the extraction took place. The bone supporting the upper molars is soft, for example, so there’s generally minimal discomfort when a tooth is “pulled” from that area. The bone supporting lower wisdom teeth and molars is very dense, however, and it is common for people to experience some pain and discomfort for a day or two following extractions from these locations. We understand that you may be anxious about pain following tooth extraction, and pain medications will be provided to help alleviate some of your discomfort.

After a Tooth is Removed

For the first 24 hours after an extraction, it’s important that you do not spit, smoke, or use a straw while drinking. The blood clot that needs to form during those first days is fragile, and putting undue pressure on it could displace it. When that happens, it’s called a “dry socket” and can be extremely painful. The good news, however, is that a dry socket can be treated successfully with medicated dressing. If it’s been three days or more since your extraction and you’re still having pain, call your dentist right away.

In a few more weeks, the gums will heal and cover the empty tooth socket. You may feel unusual sensations during the early stages of healing, but they should go away within a few days. To help your mouth heal properly, we recommend a soft diet at first, then slowly working your way back to normal food.

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Wisdom Teeth Removal

Did you know that not all wisdom teeth need to be removed? In fact, some people keep their wisdom teeth their entire lives without issue — they even use them to help chew food. However, if cavities or infections form, or if the gums surrounding the wisdom teeth become inflamed, it may be a good idea to have them removed. We start every consultation on wisdom teeth with digital X-rays to check on the health before even considering wisdom teeth extraction.