Extractions

General Dentistry, Family Dentists & Emergency Dentists in Puyallup, WA

Extractions services offered in Puyallup, WA

Tooth extractions aren’t the first step in treatment, but if your tooth can’t be saved, an extraction can rescue your bite. At South Hill Family Dentistry in Puyallup, Washington, their providers help you determine if a tooth extraction is the best course of treatment for decay, injury, or orthodontic needs. Call today or use the online tool to schedule an appointment.

When are tooth extractions necessary?

Tooth extractions are necessary when trauma or decay makes it so your tooth cannot be repaired or saved.

Additional reasons for an extraction include:

Crowding
Severe tooth infection
Serious gum disease
Compromised immune system

Wisdom teeth are one of the most common types of extractions, as many people don’t have room in their mouths for this last set of molars. Wisdom teeth also often get stuck beneath the gum line or come in crookedly, affecting your smile’s alignment.

What is involved in tooth extractions?

Extractions happen in one of two ways. The team numbs the treatment area completely, so you feel nothing during the procedure.

Simple extractions

Your dentist does simple extractions on teeth that sit above the gum line. They use an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth and then pull it out.

Surgical extraction

Surgical extraction is for teeth that are impacted, or have not yet erupted through the surface of your gums. If you had an accident and broke a tooth off at the gum line, you might also need a surgical extraction.

During a surgical extraction, your dentist makes a small incision in the gum and removes the tooth.

What is it like to recover from a tooth extraction?

Tooth extractions are safe and done to protect your long-term oral health. Any patients at risk of developing an infection will be prescribed antibiotics during the healing process.

You receive comprehensive, clear after-care instructions once you go home to recover.

Expect to have some discomfort for a few days following a simple or surgical tooth extraction. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen can help ease your pain.

After an extraction, a blood clot forms in the socket that once held your tooth. This clot helps you heal and protects the tissue at the extraction site. Avoid both high-impact activities and drinking with a straw for several days after your extraction. These activities can loosen the clot and cause a lot of pain and discomfort.

You’ll also want to stick to soft foods for several days after the extraction and refrain from smoking. You can still brush your teeth and tongue, but avoid the extraction site.

Call South Hill Family Dentistry or use this website to schedule an appointment to find out if you need a tooth extraction.