Oral Surgery & Tooth Extractions
Extractions may be necessary when:
Patients have a broken, loose, infected, or severely damaged tooth that can no longer be saved.
While preserving your natural teeth is always our goal, there are times when removing a tooth is the healthiest option. If a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or beyond repair, a gentle extraction can relieve discomfort, prevent further complications, and create the foundation for a healthier smile.
At Torresdale Dental Associates, we understand that many patients feel anxious about having a tooth removed. Our team is committed to making the experience as comfortable as possible by ensuring you’re completely numb before treatment begins and providing compassionate care every step of the way.
If a tooth does need to be removed, we’ll also discuss potential tooth replacement options to help restore your smile and maintain long-term oral health.
Why are tooth extractions sometimes necessary?
When a tooth can no longer be saved, removing it can improve both your comfort and your overall oral health.
Extractions may be used to:
- Bring relief from pain caused by damaged or infected teeth
- Eliminate infection and prevent it from spreading
- Improve your ability to eat comfortably
- Protect surrounding teeth and gums
- Prepare your smile for restorative solutions like a dental implant or denture when appropriate
- Improve overall oral health and function
Our goal is always to recommend the treatment that’s best for your long-term dental health. Whenever possible, we’ll discuss alternatives that save the natural tooth before recommending an extraction.
Could you need a tooth extraction?
In many cases, an extraction is not the first line of response to an oral health concern, so don’t panic! However, if you are experiencing any of the following, you should see your dentist:
- Persistent tooth pain
- A loose tooth
- A severely infected tooth
- A broken tooth that you suspect may be damaged beyond repair
In some cases, a tooth that appears to need extraction may still be saved with treatments such as root canal therapy. During your examination, our doctors will evaluate your tooth and explain all appropriate treatment options before moving forward.
What to expect during your appointment
Most tooth extractions are completed in less than one hour.
Step 1: Keeping You Comfortable
Before treatment begins, we’ll gently numb the area around the tooth to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Step 2: Removing the Tooth
Once you’re numb, we’ll carefully remove the tooth. Depending on its condition, the tooth may be removed in one piece or in several smaller sections to make the procedure as gentle as possible.
Step 3: Protecting the Area
After the tooth has been removed, we’ll make sure the area is healing properly and provide detailed instructions to help you care for the extraction site at home.
If replacing the tooth is recommended, we’ll also discuss options such as dental implants or dentures and help you determine the solution that’s right for you.
Recovery after tooth extraction
Most patients experience some soreness following an extraction, which gradually improves over the next several days.
To encourage proper healing, we’ll provide detailed post-operative instructions, including when and what to eat, tips for keeping the area clean, and activities to avoid while healing. We also will advise on why it’s important to avoid smoking and drinking through a straw during recovery. Following these instructions carefully helps reduce the risk of complications and supports a smooth recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the extraction hurt?
No. Before the procedure begins, we’ll make sure you’re fully numb so you don’t feel pain during the extraction. You may notice some pressure or movement while the tooth is being removed, but you should remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Will I be asleep during the extraction?
No, we do not offer sedation for extractions. However, we carefully numb the area before treatment to keep you as comfortable as possible. While you may feel pressure during the procedure, you should not feel pain.
Do I need to replace the tooth after it’s removed?
It depends on which tooth is being extracted. Wisdom teeth generally do not need to be replaced, but other missing teeth are often good candidates for replacement with a dental implant or denture to help restore function and prevent future changes to your bite. Our doctors will discuss the best options for your individual situation.
Will my teeth shift after an extraction?
Over time, neighboring teeth can gradually shift into the empty space, and opposing teeth may begin to move as well. Replacing missing teeth when appropriate can help maintain proper alignment and function.
Why choose us for extractions in Northeast Philadelphia?
We know that the thought of having a tooth removed can be stressful. That is why, in many cases we thoroughly evaluate other options to see whether the natural tooth can be saved with another treatment. If extraction is necessary, we focus on making it as gentle and efficient as possible. Whether we are working to save the natural tooth or making the decision to extract it, our goal is always the same: to help you achieve a healthy, comfortable smile with a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
As with all of our services, our experienced team takes the time to explain the procedure, answer your questions, and ensure you’re fully numb before treatment begins. Throughout your appointment, we’ll prioritize your comfort while providing the personalized care you deserve.
If you have questions about insurance coverage, treatment costs, or tooth replacement options later on, our team is happy to review your benefits and discuss your available options before treatment begins.
Need relief from tooth pain?
Related Services
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A crown is a treatment that is completed when a tooth has a cavity or fracture that compromises a large portion of the tooth.
Dental Fillings
A dental filling is a tooth-colored material that is used to treat a tooth with a cavity. Once the cavity is gently removed, the filling is placed to seamlessly restore the tooth to its original form and function.
Dentures
A denture is removable and is a solution for those who want to replace multiple teeth at once.