Extractions

The most common reasons for tooth loss include advanced periodontal disease, extensive tooth decay, and facial trauma. According to statistics, gum disease is responsible for close to 70% of tooth loss in adults. Although less frequent than the preceding three reasons, it should also be noted that specific diseases, drugs, smoking, and poor nutrition contribute to the risk of tooth loss.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that in the United States, an average of 12 teeth (including the wisdom teeth) are lost by the age of 50. Also, 26% of adults between 65 and 74 years of age have lost all their teeth.

Every patient and every situation is different. However, when a tooth and the surrounding tissues are numbed with a local anesthetic, you should only expect to feel a bit of pressure, but no pain as the tooth is being loosened from the surrounding tissues and extracted. For patients who are apprehensive and for some surgical extractions, our office will discuss our options in dental sedation to provide further relaxation and reduce any sense of discomfort.

While it's normal to feel some tenderness and swelling following an extraction, the degree of these sensations can vary. It mostly depends on the complexity of the extraction and the body's response to the procedure. We'll recommend or prescribe the appropriate pain medication to help ensure your comfort and give you specific instructions for maximum effectiveness and safety.

Typically, the recovery period following a simple extraction is shorter than a surgical extraction. However, a patient's overall health, habits, the size and location of the tooth, and other variables can influence recovery and healing. To speed up the recovery and avoid any complications, patients must follow the given at-home instructions diligently. We'll carefully review what to expect following your procedure and go over your post-op instructions.

Smoking interferes with blood clot formation, which is an essential first step in the healing process. Blood clot formation not only provides a protective layer to cover the underlying exposed bone and nerve endings, but it also supports the growth of new tissue. Cigarette smoke also contains chemical toxins that can disrupt the healing process and lead to problems such as continued inflammation, infection, or dry socket.

In a very small percentage of cases, a condition known as dry socket can develop in the aftermath of a dental extraction. This painful condition can arise when the blood clot in the extraction site doesn't form properly or gets dislodged. With dry socket, you may experience throbbing pain and symptoms such as bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. As skilled providers of care, our office will provide immediate treatment to alleviate your discomfort and promote healing.

The last teeth in your mouth to develop, wisdom teeth often do not have enough room to fully erupt or may be positioned in the wrong direction. These issues can affect your dental health as well as overall wellbeing. While some individuals never develop all their wisdom teeth, and a few have sufficient space for them, there are many people with partially or fully impacted third molars. Our office will monitor the development, position, and health of your wisdom teeth and will advise you if and when extractions are indicated.

After a tooth is removed, bone-grafting material is sometimes placed in the socket to promote healing and encourage new bone development. This procedure is often performed to support the eventual and successful placement of a dental implant.

At the office of Chadha & Co Dental, we strive to make dental care affordable and accessible. Depending on the type or complexity of the extraction and other variables, the cost of the procedure can vary. Based on our diagnostic findings, our office will inform you of the healthiest choices in care, explain the fees, discuss insurance coverage, and explain your payment options.

Many dental plans offer some level of coverage for tooth extractions. We'll advise you if your plan covers the full cost of the procedure and if there is any out-of-pocket expense. Our business office will work with you to maximize your insurance benefits as much as possible while helping you minimize any out-of-pocket expenses.

A tooth extraction becomes necessary when a tooth poses a risk to a patient’s oral health that cannot be reasonably managed with restorative care. Common reasons include extensive decay that compromises most of the tooth structure, severe fractures that extend below the gumline, advanced periodontal disease with loss of supporting bone, and teeth that are causing recurrent infection or pain. In some cases extraction is also recommended to address impaction, to remove over-retained primary teeth, or as part of an orthodontic plan to create space.

Decisions to extract are made after a careful evaluation that balances the value of preserving a natural tooth against the long-term health of the mouth. When possible the dental team explores conservative treatments first, and they explain why extraction is the most prudent option when it is recommended. Patients are informed about next steps and replacement options so the procedure fits into a broader plan for function and wellness.

Determining whether a tooth can be saved begins with a thorough clinical exam and a review of medical and dental history to identify factors that affect treatment choices. Diagnostic imaging such as digital X-rays helps evaluate root shape, bone levels, and the extent of decay or fracture, while discussions about symptoms and prior treatments clarify prognosis. The dentist weighs restorative possibilities, like root canal therapy and crowns, against the likelihood of long-term success.

At Chadha & Co Dental we prioritize preservation of natural teeth but recommend extraction when it best protects overall oral health. When extraction is advised we explain the reasons clearly, outline alternatives and expected outcomes, and coordinate with specialists when a different level of surgical care would be in the patient’s best interest.

Preparation for the appointment includes a review of your medical history, current medications, and any allergies so the team can plan safe anesthesia and perioperative care. Most extractions are performed using local anesthesia to numb the area, and for patients with anxiety or for more complex cases, oral or inhalation sedation may be offered to improve comfort. The dentist will describe the planned technique, whether a simple removal with forceps or a surgical approach that requires small incisions or sectioning of the tooth.

During the procedure you will be monitored and the dentist will work with a focus on gentle technique and infection control. After the tooth is removed the team places gauze to encourage clot formation and provides specific post-operative instructions, medications if indicated, and a plan for follow-up to confirm proper healing.

A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is fully visible in the mouth and can typically be removed with forceps after the area is numbed. This technique tends to be shorter and has a predictable recovery because the tooth can be loosened and delivered without cutting into gum tissue or bone. Patients often experience mild soreness and swelling that resolves within a few days with routine home care.

Surgical extraction is used when a tooth is broken at the gumline, impacted beneath the bone, or presents root anatomy that complicates straightforward removal. Surgical cases may require a small incision, removal of a bit of bone, or sectioning the tooth into pieces for safe removal, and they can involve sutures and a slightly longer recovery. When complexity is high, the dentist may refer to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure the most appropriate level of care.

Wisdom teeth are not always removed; the decision depends on how they erupt and whether they cause problems. When third molars are impacted, partially erupted, chronically decayed, cause pain, or create crowding that affects adjacent teeth, removal is commonly recommended to prevent future complications. Conversely, asymptomatic wisdom teeth that erupt fully, are easy to clean, and show no signs of disease may be monitored with regular exams and X-rays.

Age, tooth position, and individual risk factors influence the recommendation, and the dental team discusses the likely course if the teeth are left in place versus the benefits of removal. If removal is indicated, the timing and surgical approach are planned to minimize risk and support a smooth recovery.

Preparing for an extraction begins with providing a complete medical history and a list of current medications so the dentist can assess bleeding risk, possible drug interactions, and the need for antibiotic coverage or medical clearance. If sedation is planned, you should follow fasting instructions and arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and assist afterward. Review any instructions about stopping or adjusting blood-thinning medications only under guidance from your physician and the dental team.

It also helps to plan for post-operative care by arranging time off work or activities, preparing soft foods, and ensuring you have recommended supplies like gauze and cold packs on hand. Clear communication about questions or concerns before the appointment reduces anxiety and helps the team tailor care to your needs.

Most extractions heal without major problems, but patients should be aware of potential complications such as prolonged bleeding, infection, and dry socket, which occurs when the protective blood clot is disrupted. Symptoms that suggest complications include increasing pain after the first few days, persistent or heavy bleeding, swelling that worsens rather than improves, fever, or a foul taste or odor. The dental team provides specific signs to watch for and clear instructions to reduce these risks.

If a complication arises, prompt evaluation allows the dentist to treat it effectively, which may include prescribing antibiotics for infection, providing analgesics, irrigating the socket, or placing medicated dressings for dry socket. Most issues are manageable in the office when addressed quickly, so patients are encouraged to contact the practice if they have concerning symptoms.

Home recovery focuses on protecting the blood clot, controlling swelling, managing discomfort, and keeping the mouth clean without disturbing the healing site. Bite gently on gauze as directed to encourage clot formation, apply intermittent ice to control swelling during the first 24 hours, and take prescribed or recommended pain medication as instructed for comfort. Avoid strenuous activity, smoking, spitting, or using straws for the first 24 to 48 hours to minimize the chance of dislodging the clot.

Oral hygiene should continue with care; brush other teeth gently and begin gentle saltwater rinses after the first day as advised to keep the area clean. Follow-up instructions regarding suture removal, if needed, and any additional visits should be followed so the dentist can confirm proper healing and address any questions during recovery.

Many patients can resume light, routine activities within a day or two after a simple extraction, but this timeline varies based on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing. Soft, cool or lukewarm foods are recommended during the initial days, gradually progressing to a normal diet as comfort allows and as the extraction site shows signs of healing. Avoid hot, crunchy, or sharp foods in the early period to prevent irritation or accidental disruption of the socket.

For surgical extractions or cases with more extensive bone removal, a longer recovery period may be advised, and your dentist will offer personalized guidance about activity restrictions and when it is safe to return to exercise or demanding physical work. Always follow the specific recommendations given at your visit to support optimal healing.

After adequate healing from an extraction, patients may consider several restorative options to replace a missing tooth, including dental implants, fixed bridges, and removable prostheses. Dental implants provide a stable, long-term solution that helps preserve bone and function, whereas bridges and dentures remain reliable alternatives when implants are not suitable due to medical, anatomical, or personal considerations. The choice depends on the tooth’s role in the bite, bone availability, overall oral health, and the patient’s goals for function and appearance.

Your dentist will review the advantages and limitations of each option and create a coordinated treatment plan that may involve implant placement, crown work, or prosthetic fabrication after healing. This collaborative approach ensures the selected restoration supports chewing efficiency, speech, and long-term oral health while fitting into your broader dental care plan.