Tooth Extractions

When a Tooth Needs to Be Removed

Sometimes, removing a tooth is the best option for your long-term oral health. Whether it’s due to severe decay, gum disease, or overcrowding—removing a problematic tooth can relieve pain and create space for healthier teeth.

At Breakwater Oral Surgery, we make the process as smooth as possible. Our skilled team use advanced techniques and precise care to ensure you have a comfortable experience and successful recovery.

Understanding Tooth Extractions

What Is a Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from the jawbone. This procedure is performed when a tooth is too damaged to be saved or is causing problems for your overall dental health. Extractions may be necessary for a variety of reasons, from tooth decay and gum disease, to making room for orthodontic treatment.

Types of Tooth Extractions

There are two types of extractions, depending on the condition of the tooth:

1. Simple Extraction: Performed when a tooth is fully visible and easily accessible. The area is numbed with local anesthetic and the tooth is gently loosened and removed.
2. Surgical Extraction: This is needed when a tooth is impacted, broken, or difficult to access. This involves a small incision in the gum tissue and may require removing a portion of the bone to extract the tooth safely.

The Tooth Extraction Process

Your Initial Consultation

Before an extraction, your oral surgeon will evaluate your tooth and take X-rays to determine the best approach. They will review your medical history, talk through anesthesia options, and provide pre-extraction instructions to ensure a smooth procedure.

During the Extraction

The area will be numbed with local anesthetic to keep you comfortable. For more complex cases or if you’re feeling anxious—more advanced levels of sedation are available. A simple extraction involves carefully removing the tooth, while a surgical extraction may require a small incision to access the tooth. The entire process is designed to be swift and painless as possible.

Post-Extraction Care

What to Expect After Surgery

Immediately after the procedure, a blood clot will form in the socket to protect the area. It’s best to bite down on gauze to control bleeding, which typically slows within a few hours. Swelling and mild discomfort are normal for the first 24 hours and can be managed with ice packs and pain relievers.

Recovery Tips

• Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup for the first few days
• Avoid using straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing to prevent dry sockets, a painful condition caused by a disrupted blood clot
• Brush and floss carefully, avoiding the extraction site until it heals
• Limit physical activity for the first 24–48 hours to reduce swelling and bleeding

Most patients feel back to normal within a week, but full healing can take a few weeks depending on the complexity of the extraction.

Why Choose Breakwater Oral Surgery?

Our experienced surgery team specializes in tooth extractions. With advanced technology, precise techniques, and a compassionate approach, we ensure a safe and comfortable experience from start to finish.

If you need a tooth removed, trust Breakwater Oral Surgery for expert care. Schedule a consultation today to get started.

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