Nobody wants to lose a tooth, and we always try to save one first. But sometimes pulling it is the healthier choice. A tooth that's badly broken, very loose, or infected past the point of repair can cause more problems if it stays.
What happens
We numb the area well, and you'll feel pressure but shouldn't feel sharp pain. Many extractions are pretty quick. If a tooth is broken below the gumline or has curved roots, it can take a little longer.
Afterward
Bite on gauze, rest, skip smoking and straws, and stick to soft foods for a day or two. Call us if bleeding doesn't slow down or pain gets worse after a few days instead of better.
What about the gap?
Worth thinking about before the tooth comes out. Depending on where it is, we might talk about an implant, a bridge, or a partial. Planning ahead sometimes makes the next step easier.