Tooth Extractions

At Cosmic Dental, preserving your natural teeth is always our goal—but when a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or causing other complications, extraction may be the healthiest option. Whether it’s a simple removal or a more complex procedure, we aim to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.

When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Tooth extractions are typically recommended when a tooth cannot be restored with treatments like fillings, crowns, or root canals. Common reasons for removal include:

• Advanced tooth decay that compromises the tooth structure
• Gum disease that leads to loose or infected teeth
• Impacted or overcrowded teeth, especially wisdom teeth
• Fractured roots or cracks that extend below the gumline
• Infections or abscesses that don’t respond to other treatments

In some cases, a tooth may be removed to make space for orthodontic treatment or to reduce the risk of infection before certain medical procedures. Before recommending extraction, we perform a full assessment using digital X-rays and clinical exams.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth often don’t have enough room to emerge properly, which can lead to pain, swelling, infection, or misalignment of nearby teeth. In many cases, removal is recommended even before symptoms appear. Depending on the position and angle of the tooth, a surgical approach may be required. Our team is experienced in handling both simple and complex wisdom tooth extractions, and sedation options are available to help you feel relaxed during the procedure.

What to Expect During Your Extraction

Your comfort is a priority. Tooth extractions may be done under local anesthesia or, in more complex cases, with sedation. If the tooth is impacted or broken, it may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces before removal to minimize tissue disruption. Once the tooth is removed, we’ll clean the area and may place stitches to assist in healing.

What to Tell Your Dentist Before the Procedure

Be sure to inform us about your full medical history, including any conditions such as heart disease, liver issues, immune system disorders, or recent surgeries. We also need to know if you're taking any medications, including blood thinners, as these may impact healing or require special precautions.

Healing & Aftercare

Following your procedure, we’ll guide you through care steps to support healing and reduce complications such as dry socket. Here are some essential tips:

• Take pain relievers as prescribed or recommended
• Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling
• Stick to soft or liquid foods for the first few days
• Avoid using straws or smoking, as suction can disrupt healing
• Rinse gently with warm salt water starting 24 hours after the extraction

Most patients begin to feel better within a few days. Initial healing occurs within 1–2 weeks, although deeper tissues may take longer. If pain increases after several days, contact us promptly, as it may indicate dry socket or infection.

FAQs About Tooth Extractions

Will I need time off work after an extraction?

We recommend resting the day of and the day after your procedure. You may experience swelling or mild discomfort that could affect speaking or eating. Avoid strenuous activity, bending, or heavy lifting for at least 1–3 days.

How do I manage pain after the procedure?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are often enough. Take your first dose while you're still numb to stay ahead of any discomfort. Avoid aspirin, as it can thin your blood and delay clotting. We may prescribe medication if needed based on your health and the complexity of your case.

What should I eat after my tooth extraction?

Stick to soft or liquid foods like smoothies, mashed potatoes, or soup for the first few days. Avoid anything too hot, crunchy, or spicy. Do not use a straw, as suction can interfere with clotting and cause bleeding.

Risks & Tooth Replacement Options

While tooth extractions are common and generally safe, potential risks include bleeding, infection, dry socket, or sinus issues for upper teeth. Once healing is complete, we recommend discussing tooth replacement options such as dental implants or bridges to help maintain bite alignment and jawbone health.