Simple & Surgical Extractions
Comfortable, Compassionate Tooth Removal
While Dr. Planes always makes every effort to save a natural tooth, there are situations in which extraction is the most appropriate treatment. When that moment comes, you can trust that your extraction at Lifestream Dental & Wellness will be performed with the utmost gentleness, precision, and care for your comfort and recovery.
Dr. Planes' extensive surgical training, combined with our sedation options and spa-like amenities, ensures that your extraction experience is far more comfortable than you might expect. Many patients are surprised by how straightforward and painless the process is.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
- Severe tooth decay that has destroyed too much tooth structure to restore
- Advanced gum disease that has caused significant bone and tooth loss
- A cracked tooth that extends below the gum line and cannot be repaired
- Impacted wisdom teeth causing pain, infection, or crowding
- Overcrowding prior to orthodontic treatment
- A primary (baby) tooth that has failed to fall out and is blocking the permanent tooth
- Infection that has spread and cannot be resolved with a root canal or antibiotics
Types of Extractions
Simple Extraction: Performed on a tooth that is fully visible above the gum line. After local anesthesia, the tooth is gently loosened with a dental elevator and removed with forceps. Most patients are surprised by how quick and pressure-free the experience is.
Surgical Extraction: Required for teeth that are broken at the gum line, have curved roots, or have not yet fully erupted (such as impacted wisdom teeth). A small incision may be made in the gum to access the tooth, and the tooth may be sectioned into pieces for easier removal. Sedation options are especially valuable for surgical extractions.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
Wisdom teeth (third molars) are the most commonly extracted teeth. They often erupt improperly — at angles, partially through the gum, or not at all — causing pain, crowding, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. Dr. Planes performs wisdom tooth extractions routinely, and sedation options make the experience comfortable even for multi-tooth removal.
Tooth Replacement After Extraction
Whenever a non-wisdom tooth is extracted, replacing it promptly is important for your long-term oral health. Missing teeth lead to bone loss in the jaw, shifting of neighboring teeth, and changes in your bite and facial structure. Dr. Planes will discuss your replacement options, which include:
- Dental Implants — the gold standard; a permanent titanium root topped with a natural-looking crown
- Dental Bridge — a fixed restoration anchored to adjacent teeth
- Partial Dentures — a removable option for replacing one or more missing teeth
Post-Extraction Care Instructions
- Bite gently on the provided gauze for 30–45 minutes after your extraction
- Avoid rinsing, spitting forcefully, or using a straw for 24 hours to protect the clot
- Apply an ice pack (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) to reduce swelling
- Eat soft foods and avoid the extraction site for the first 24–48 hours
- Take any prescribed medication as directed
- If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection, call us immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
The extraction procedure itself should not cause pain. Local anesthetic is used to completely numb the area before any instruments are applied. You may feel pressure and movement during the extraction, but not pain. After the anesthetic wears off, some soreness and tenderness is normal for a few days and is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers or any prescription medication provided.
How long is the recovery after a tooth extraction?
Most simple extractions heal in 1 to 2 weeks. Surgical extractions and wisdom tooth removal may require 2 to 4 weeks for complete healing, though most patients return to normal activities within a few days. The initial blood clot forms within the first 24 hours and is critical — protecting it is the most important part of early recovery.
Do I need to replace the extracted tooth?
For wisdom teeth, replacement is typically not necessary. For any other tooth in your mouth, replacement is strongly recommended. The gap left by a missing tooth causes the surrounding teeth to shift, the jawbone to atrophy, and the bite to change — leading to additional dental problems over time. Dr. Planes will discuss the best replacement options at your appointment.
Can I use sedation for my extraction?
Absolutely. Sedation options are available for any extraction procedure. Nitrous oxide is ideal for patients with mild anxiety; oral sedation is available for moderate anxiety; IV sedation is an option for patients who are very anxious or undergoing complex or multiple extractions. Many patients choose sedation simply for a more comfortable, relaxed experience.
