Signs It’s Time to Have a Tooth Removed

Dr. Boyd will evaluate your tooth to assess the damage. We’ll take X-rays to determine the extent of damage to the bone structure of your tooth. X-rays will also help us plan your extraction procedure. If the tooth needs to be removed, we’ll numb your mouth for this treatment. You can also request sedation to relieve anxiety and fear. Dr. Boyd will firmly yet gently pull your tooth loose from its socket using special dental tools. 

Surgical extraction may be needed for an impacted wisdom tooth or a severely fractured tooth. This entails making an incision in your gum, removing bone structure to gain access to your tooth, and pulling it loose. We’ll provide detailed instructions on how to care for the extraction site afterward to minimize pain, prevent infection, and expedite your recovery.

That depends on the type of extraction, the state of your tooth, its location, and your general health. A surgical extraction, for example, will take longer than a simple one. If you have a medical issue, we may need to proceed more slowly with your extraction to avoid aggravating your condition. If you choose to be sedated for your treatment, that will add to your extraction time as well. Generally, simple extractions can take 15 to 20 minutes to complete, whereas surgical extractions can take up to an hour, depending on the complexity of your condition.

A severely decayed, damaged, or infected tooth will not heal independently. Your condition will continue to worsen, causing you more pain and discomfort. You also risk the infection spreading to healthy teeth or other body parts through your bloodstream, putting your general health at risk. Eventually, your tooth may lead to severe systemic infection, which may lead to a medical emergency, putting your life at risk. Extraction is sometimes the best course of action to restore oral health.