The goal of every dental treatment is to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. However, when a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or cannot be restored, removing it may be the healthiest option for protecting your oral health and relieving discomfort.
At Power Road Dental Care in Mesa, Dr. Tyler N. Davis performs gentle tooth extractions using a conservative approach and will always discuss your treatment options before recommending removal. Whether you need a simple extraction or an evaluation for wisdom teeth, our team is committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible.
Book an AppointmentWhy Tooth Removal Is Necessary
A tooth extraction is usually recommended only when a tooth cannot be saved with treatments such as a filling, crown, or root canal. Removing a damaged tooth can relieve pain, prevent infection from spreading, and protect your surrounding teeth.
Common reasons a tooth may need to be removed include:
- Severe tooth decay
- Crowded teeth
- Severely cracked or broken teeth
- Gum disease
- Abnormally shaped or impacted teeth that can’t erupt properly from the gum line, such as wisdom teeth
- Orthodontic treatment
Types of Tooth Extractions
The type of extraction recommended depends on the condition of the tooth and how easily it can be accessed.
Simple Tooth Extractions
A simple extraction is performed when the tooth has fully erupted above the gum line and can be removed without surgery. Local anesthetic is used to keep you comfortable while the tooth is gently loosened and removed.
Surgical Tooth Extractions
A surgical extraction may be necessary when a tooth has broken below the gum line or cannot be removed with a simple extraction. This procedure may involve making a small opening in the gum or sectioning the tooth into smaller pieces to allow for safe removal.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common reasons for tooth extractions. They are usually removed because they can cause overcrowding and other problems if left untreated.
We will perform wisdom tooth removal in our office if the removal is uncomplicated, i.e. if they have erupted from the gum line and are easily accessible.
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, we will refer you to an oral surgeon for removal. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause complications such as nerve damage, infection or decay, so it is important that these be removed by a dental specialist in order to avoid further issues.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
We will always strive to make the tooth extraction process as smooth and easy as possible. Here is what you can expect on the day of your appointment:
- We will thoroughly examine your mouth and take x-rays to determine which type of extraction is necessary.
- The area will be numbed with local anesthetic to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Nitrous oxide or oral sedation may also be available, depending on your treatment needs and preferences.
- We will gently and carefully remove the affected tooth using specialized dental instruments.
- Depending on the type of extraction, sutures may be used to close the wound.
Recovering After a Tooth Extraction
Our goal is for you to experience as little pain or discomfort as possible during and after the procedure. It is normal to experience some swelling, soreness and light bleeding after the procedure.
To reduce discomfort and speed up healing, we recommend that you:
- Take pain medication as prescribed
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
- Hold an ice pack against the affected area for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day
- Avoid drinking through straws to prevent dry socket (a dislodged blood clot)
- Refrain from physical activity or strenuous exercise for 4-5 days
- Avoid smoking, using tobacco or vaping for at least 48 hours after the procedure
- Avoid eating hard, crunchy or sticky foods
- Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt or applesauce
- Brush and floss your teeth as usual but avoid the area around the extraction site
Are There Risks?
Tooth extraction is a relatively safe procedure. However, as with any type of surgical procedure, there are potential risks. Some complications that can occur include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Dry socket
- Damage to surrounding teeth or tissues
At Power Road Dental Care, we take every precaution to ensure the safety of our patients. We use only the most advanced techniques and materials to prevent complications and promote faster healing.
Mesa Dentist Serving the East Valley
At Power Road Dental Care, we make tooth extractions as comfortable and stress-free as possible while focusing on your long-term oral health. From your initial evaluation to your recovery, Dr. Tyler N. Davis and our team provide personalized care, clear communication, and detailed aftercare instructions every step of the way.
To book an appointment at our dental office in Mesa, AZ, call (480) 664-1438 or visit us at 2500 S Power Rd STE 102, Mesa, AZ 85209.
FAQs About Tooth Extractions
Is a tooth extraction painful?
No, a tooth extraction is not painful. Before your tooth is removed, the area will be completely numbed with local anesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Nitrous oxide and oral sedation are also available for patients who may benefit from additional relaxation
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Most patients feel much better within a few days, although complete healing of the extraction site can take several weeks. Your recovery time will depend on the type of extraction performed and how well you follow your post-operative instructions.
What can I eat after a tooth extraction?
Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, soup, scrambled eggs, and smoothies eaten with a spoon during the first few days.
When can I brush my teeth after a tooth extraction?
You can usually brush your teeth the same day as your extraction, but you should avoid brushing directly over the extraction site for the first few days. Be gentle around the area and follow your post-operative instructions for keeping the extraction site clean.
Can I smoke or vape after a tooth extraction?
No. Smoking and vaping can interfere with healing and increase your risk of developing dry socket, a painful complication that occurs when the protective blood clot becomes dislodged. Avoid tobacco products for as long as possible after your extraction and follow your post-operative instructions carefully.
Where can I get a tooth extraction in Mesa, AZ?
Power Road Dental Care provides simple and surgical tooth extractions for patients in Mesa and throughout the Phoenix East Valley. Dr. Tyler N. Davis performs gentle tooth extractions, including uncomplicated wisdom tooth extractions, and will refer patients with impacted wisdom teeth or more complex cases to a trusted oral surgeon when appropriate.