Tooth Extractions
When a tooth can't be saved, its removal should be calm and precise.
We always try to save your tooth first. When extraction truly is the best option, we make it gentle, well-numbed and planned around what replaces the tooth next.
What is tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. It treats teeth that are too broken, decayed, infected or loose to repair, and teeth that need to come out for orthodontic or crowding reasons. A simple extraction lifts out a visible tooth; a surgical extraction removes a broken or hard-to-reach tooth. Its main limitation: it leaves a gap that usually needs a replacement to protect your bite.
Who is a candidate?
Often a good fit
- Teeth broken below the gumline or split vertically
- Severe decay that can't support a filling or crown
- Advanced gum disease with very loose teeth
- Crowding where your orthodontist recommends removal
- Baby teeth that won't fall out on their own
Needs extra care or planning
- Blood thinners or bleeding disorders (we coordinate with your physician)
- Bisphosphonate or bone-density medications
- Recent radiation to the head or neck
- Uncontrolled diabetes or a weakened immune system
When an exam is needed: An exam and X-ray (or 3D scan) are always needed first, to confirm the tooth can't be saved and to see the roots before anything is removed.
Problems it can address
Limitations: Removing a tooth does not fix gum disease elsewhere, and a missing tooth can let neighbors drift and the bone shrink over time if it isn't replaced.
Benefits and disadvantages
Benefits
- Removes the source of pain and infection quickly
- Usually completed in one short visit
- Predictable healing for most healthy patients
- Often the least expensive immediate option
Disadvantages
- You lose a natural tooth permanently
- Neighboring teeth can shift into the gap
- Jawbone in the area shrinks without a replacement
- Replacing the tooth later (implant or bridge) adds cost
The treatment process
- 1
Exam & imaging
We review your history, take X-rays and explain every option, including saving the tooth.
- 2
Comfort & numbing
A warmed local anesthetic, with nitrous oxide (laughing gas) available from our Comfort Menu.
- 3
Gentle removal
The tooth is loosened and lifted out with care to protect the surrounding bone.
- 4
Socket care
We clean the area and may place a bone graft to preserve the site for a future implant.
- 5
Aftercare plan
You leave with written instructions and a direct number to call.
Timeline: Most simple extractions take 20–40 minutes. The gum heals in 1–2 weeks; bone fills in over about 3 months.
Recovery and aftercare
What to expect
Discomfort: Mild to moderate soreness for 2–3 days, usually managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Downtime: Most people return to work the next day.
Aftercare
- Bite on gauze for 30–45 minutes
- No straws, smoking or spitting for 72 hours
- Soft foods for a few days; chew on the other side
- Gentle warm salt-water rinses from day two
Call us right away if you notice
- Bleeding that won't stop with firm pressure
- Pain that gets worse after day three (possible dry socket)
- Fever, spreading swelling or a bad taste
Longevity and outcomes
An extraction is permanent. Long-term success depends on how the gap is managed afterward.
What affects your result
- Whether the tooth is replaced
- Smoking
- Overall health and healing
- Following aftercare
Possible complications
- Dry socket
- Infection
- Rarely, nerve irritation or sinus involvement for upper back teeth
Cost and payment options
Pricing depends on the tooth and whether it's a simple or surgical removal. You'll get an exact written quote at your exam before anything is done.
What affects the price
- Simple vs surgical extraction
- Bone graft to preserve the site
- Sedation or nitrous oxide
- Your insurance coverage
Insurance & financing
We accept most PPO plans and offer financing through CareCredit, Sunbit and others.
Comparison with alternatives
Root canal + crown
Often saves an infected tooth that is still structurally sound.
Crown or onlay
Can rebuild a broken tooth when enough healthy structure remains.
Gum therapy
Deep cleaning may stabilize loose teeth in earlier gum disease.
Monitoring
Some symptom-free problems can be safely watched with regular X-rays.
Clinical case examples
Real, patient-authorized cases for this treatment are being added soon, with diagnosis, reasoning and results.
View our Before & After Gallery →Why choose Neo Dental?
Patient reviews
Read what our patients say, in their own words, on independent review sites.
Frequently asked questions
Does a tooth extraction hurt?+
You'll feel pressure but not sharp pain. We make sure you're fully numb before we begin.
How long does it take?+
Most simple extractions take 20–40 minutes, including numbing.
Do I need to replace the tooth?+
Usually yes for back and front teeth, to stop shifting and bone loss. Wisdom teeth are the common exception.
What is dry socket?+
It happens when the blood clot is lost too early, exposing bone. It's painful but treatable. Avoiding straws and smoking helps prevent it.
When can I eat?+
Once the numbness wears off, start with soft, lukewarm foods and avoid the extraction side.
Can I get an implant the same day?+
Sometimes. It depends on the bone and any infection. We'll tell you at your exam.
Can I go to work the next day?+
Most patients do. Avoid hard exercise for 48 hours.
Your care team & booking
Dr. Sol Shahri
General and cosmetic dentist leading every treatment plan at Neo Dental. This page was medically reviewed by Dr. Sol Shahri.
Meet the team →References
Related treatments
Not sure if you need tooth extractions?
Book an exam and we'll explain every option, including the most conservative one.
Book your visit