Simple extraction
A visible tooth is loosened and removed with local anesthesia.
Tooth extractions in Grand Prairie, Commerce and Paris, TX
Your dentist works to save natural teeth whenever possible, but sometimes removing a tooth is the healthiest choice. Severe decay, infection, a broken tooth or impacted wisdom teeth can all lead to an extraction. Extractions are offered at our Grand Prairie, Commerce and Paris offices, including surgical and wisdom tooth extractions.
About Tooth Extractions
A tooth extraction removes a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. A simple extraction removes a tooth that is fully visible above the gums. A surgical extraction is used when a tooth is broken at the gumline, has curved roots or is impacted, meaning it has not fully come in, as often happens with wisdom teeth.
Reasons a tooth may need to be removed
- Severe decay or a fracture that cannot be repaired
- Infection that cannot be treated with a root canal
- Advanced gum disease that has loosened the tooth
- Impacted or problem wisdom teeth
- Crowding before orthodontic treatment, when recommended
- Preparing for dentures or implants
Treatment options
Surgical extraction
The gum is opened, and the tooth may be removed in sections when it is broken, has difficult roots or is not fully visible.
Wisdom tooth removal
Wisdom teeth that are impacted, partly erupted or causing problems are removed, often with a surgical approach.
What to expect
- 1
Exam and X-rays
Your dentist examines the tooth, reviews your health history and medications, and takes X-rays to plan the extraction.
- 2
Numbing and comfort
Local anesthetic numbs the area. Ask your office about any comfort options available there.
- 3
Removal
The tooth is gently loosened and removed. Stitches may be placed after a surgical extraction.
- 4
Recovery plan
You receive written aftercare instructions and a plan for replacing the tooth if needed.
Benefits
- Removes the source of pain or infection
- Protects nearby teeth and gums
- Can prevent problems from impacted wisdom teeth
- Prepares the mouth for implants, dentures or orthodontics when needed
Risks and limitations
- Swelling, bruising and soreness are common for a few days, especially after surgical extractions
- Dry socket, when the blood clot is lost from the socket, can cause pain several days later and needs treatment
- Rare risks include infection, nerve injury that causes numbness and, for upper teeth, sinus involvement
- A missing tooth may need to be replaced to keep nearby teeth from shifting
Recovery and aftercare
- Bite on gauze as directed and avoid rinsing hard, spitting or using straws for the first day
- Do not smoke during healing, since it raises the risk of dry socket
- Eat soft foods, use cold packs on the face for swelling and take medications as directed
- Call the office if you have severe pain, bleeding that does not slow, fever or swelling that gets worse after a few days
Cost, insurance and financing
Extraction costs depend on whether the extraction is simple or surgical and how many teeth are removed. You receive a written estimate after your exam. Many dental plans cover extractions, and the team can review insurance and financing options with you.
Offices offering Tooth Extractions
Call the office you plan to visit to confirm scheduling and availability.
Frequently asked questions
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
The area is numbed, so most patients feel pressure rather than sharp pain. Soreness for a few days afterward is common and is usually managed with the medications your dentist recommends.
Do I need my wisdom teeth removed?
Not always. Wisdom teeth are often removed when they are impacted, partly erupted, decayed, causing gum infection or crowding. Your dentist uses an exam and X-rays to recommend whether to remove them.
What is dry socket?
Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the socket is lost too early, exposing bone. It can cause throbbing pain a few days after an extraction. Call the office if this happens so it can be treated.
Which offices offer extractions?
Extractions are offered at our Grand Prairie, Commerce and Paris offices. Dr. Joshua Cooper in Grand Prairie focuses on oral surgery, including surgical extractions and impacted wisdom teeth, and Dr. Tarun Mundluru's work in Commerce and Paris includes wisdom tooth extractions.
Related services
Dental Implants
Replace one tooth, several teeth or a full arch with implants that look and work like natural teeth.
Emergency Dentist
Urgent dental care for severe pain, broken or knocked-out teeth, swelling and infections.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy removes infection from inside a tooth so you can keep your natural tooth.
Sedation Dentistry
Comfort options for patients who feel nervous about dental care, where offered.
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¡Hablamos Español! Spanish-speaking front desk and dental assistants at every office.
¡Hablamos Español!Spanish-speaking front desk & dental assistants