Tooth Extraction FAQ

Tooth extraction is a dentistry practice that involves removing a tooth from its socket. This process may involve detaching a fully erupted tooth from the connective ligaments or creating a small incision to access an impacted tooth below the gum line.

Tooth extraction is never our first choice at Millersville Family Dentistry. However, there are certain cases where it may be necessary, including:

• Impacted teeth stuck below the gum line, typically associated with wisdom teeth
• Extensive tooth decay that may otherwise lead to infection
• Irreversible damage caused by periodontal disease
• Severe structural tooth trauma
• Orthodontic treatment preparation

When the tooth is fully erupted, we perform a simple extraction using an elevator instrument to loosen and remove the tooth. We employ a surgical extraction procedure if the tooth is partially or entirely covered by gum tissue. This involves creating an incision in the gum line to access the impacted tooth.

At Millersville Family Dentistry, the tooth extraction procedure is virtually pain-free. To eliminate anxiety and discomfort, we begin by administering a local anesthetic to numb the treatment site. We then carefully loosen and remove the tooth or break it into smaller pieces if it is trapped beneath the gumline.

Millersville Family Dentistry prioritizes proactive guidance for seamless tooth extraction healing experiences. One of the most important factors of recovery is soft foods to eat after tooth extraction. To avoid complications, we encourage patients to adopt a soft diet and refrain from hot foods and beverages until the extraction site is fully healed.

Tooth extraction healing times vary from one person to the next. However, with proper aftercare, the recovery process is typically well-tolerated. Discomfort, swelling, and/or minor bleeding may occur post-treatment. You may take over the counter and/or prescription medication as directed and use a cold compress to manage pain and/or inflammation.

Tooth extraction healing relies on proper aftercare. To avoid dislodging the protective blood clot, stick to a soft diet and rinse your mouth using saltwater following each meal. In addition, we advise patients to refrain from the following:

• Biting hard foods and/or chewing foreign objects
• Using a straw
• Smoking and/or tobacco products

Post-extraction, your dentist will place gauze over the extraction site and ask you to bite down to prevent bleeding. This enables a protective blood clot to form in the empty socket, minimizing the risk of dry socket, infection, and other complications.

Gauze plays a pivotal role in the tooth extraction healing process. However, it is not necessary to continue replacing the gauze once the bleeding has subsided. For most patients, bleeding will slow within 24 hours of treatment. If you experience prolonged bleeding, contact Millersville Family Dentistry.

At Millersville Family Dentistry, we employ rigorous safety precautions for successful tooth extraction procedures and expedited recovery times. However, as with any procedure, tooth extraction does not come without risks. While rare, potential complications may include:

• Infection
• Dry socket
• Nerve damage
• Maxillary sinus perforation
• Prolonged recovery

At Millersville Family Dentistry, we recognize the strain of navigating tooth loss. We offer multiple solutions to restore the form and function of your smile. Once the extraction site heals, we may recommend one of the following restorations, including:

• Partial dentures
• Full dentures
• Implant-supported dentures
• Single tooth implant