Nobody wants to lose a tooth, and our first goal is always to save it. But sometimes a tooth is too damaged, too infected, or simply in the way, and removing it is the healthiest choice. Many patients tell us they feel relief once a troublesome tooth is gone.
At Singh Smile Care in Glendale we do same-day extractions, including wisdom teeth, and we explain every step before we begin. Here is how we decide when an extraction is necessary, what the procedure involves, and how to heal well afterward.
Reasons a Tooth May Need to Come Out
The most common reasons are trauma or decay that has gone too far to repair, overcrowding, and infection. When a mouth is too crowded, a tooth may be removed before braces or when a tooth has no room to come in. An infection that reaches the pulp is usually treated with a root canal, but a severe infection can mean extraction, and patients with a weakened immune system may need a tooth removed even when it is only at risk.
- Decay or damage beyond repair
- Overcrowding before orthodontics
- Severe infection a root canal cannot fix
- A tooth with no room to erupt
Simple vs. Surgical Extractions
A simple extraction is for a tooth that is fully visible above the gum. After numbing the area with local anesthetic, we loosen the tooth and remove it. You will feel pressure but not pain. A surgical extraction is for a tooth that is impacted or broken below the gum line. It involves opening the gum and sometimes removing a little bone around the tooth. In both cases, you bite on gauze to control bleeding, and stitches may be placed.
Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the back of the mouth, usually coming in between about 17 and 21. If they are healthy and well positioned, they can stay. When there is not enough room, they become impacted, which can lead to pain, infection, cysts, decay, gum disease, and damage to neighboring teeth. We monitor them with X-rays and recommend removal when it is needed.
Getting Ready and Healing Well
Before the extraction we review your medical history and every medication and supplement you take, and we take X-rays. Antibiotics may be prescribed when there is infection or a health condition that calls for them. Afterward, the priority is protecting the blood clot in the socket so you do not get a dry socket. Rest for the first 24 hours and keep your head raised when you sleep.
- Avoid straws, spitting, rinsing, and smoking while healing
- Soft, cool foods; chew away from the site
- Cold compress and over-the-counter pain relief
- Call us for heavy bleeding, fever, or worsening pain
Replacing the Tooth
Once a tooth is out, the neighbors can shift and the bone in that spot starts to shrink. Unless it is a wisdom tooth, we will talk about replacing it, usually with a dental implant, a bridge, or a partial denture. We also offer same-day implants, so in many cases the replacement can begin right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the extraction hurt?
No. We numb the area completely with local anesthetic, so you feel pressure but not pain. Afterward, some soreness is normal and generally eases steadily over about three days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and a cold compress help.
Do wisdom teeth always need to come out?
No. Wisdom teeth that are healthy, fully erupted, and properly positioned can stay. We only recommend removal when they are impacted, crowding other teeth, or causing problems.
What should I eat afterward?
Soft, cool foods for the first few days, and chew on the other side of your mouth. Avoid hot foods and alcohol for the first 24 hours, and skip straws, which can dislodge the clot.
How long does it take to heal?
The socket usually closes in about two weeks. The bone and gum underneath continue to fill in over three to six months. Most people are back to normal activities the day after.
What is dry socket?
It happens when the blood clot in the socket is lost before the site heals, exposing the bone. It causes severe pain, a bad taste, and bad breath. If you notice these, call us. We can place a medicated dressing to keep you comfortable while it heals.
Can I get a tooth pulled the same day?
Yes. We offer same-day extractions, including wisdom teeth, and we see emergency patients without prior scheduling. Call (623) 400-6009.
Need a Tooth Out? We Can See You Today
Call (623) 400-6009 for a same-day extraction appointment in Glendale.
