Dr. Wooddell and Dr. Passaro will always make every effort to avoid having to extract a tooth, but there are certain situations where an extraction is deemed necessary for the long term health and function of your smile. Trauma, severe infection, damage or overcrowding can be common reasons for recommending a tooth extraction.

Our unique interdisciplinary approach to your dental care means that we may coordinate your care with a local specialist to ensure the best possible result. Once complete, we will work with you to create a treatment plan for tooth replacement as needed.

Depending on the size and location of the tooth to be removed, we will discuss options for comfort or sedation. We may also coordinate your care with a local specialist as needed.

A tooth extraction can be completed in one visit, often with the use of a local anesthetic. The dentist performing the procedure will make sure you are comfortable before beginning to remove the tooth by creating space between the surrounding gum tissue and the tooth root. The small ligaments holding the tooth in place will be released using special tools. Using a gentle rocking motion, your tooth will slowly be pulled from the socket and disconnected from the root. This is when most patients will feel pressure in the jaw, but there is typically little to no pain during the procedure.

The final step is to thoroughly clean the area and place gauze in the empty socket to stem bleeding and reduce the risk of infection. Post-treatment instructions will be provided and you can treat for pain or swelling as needed with an over the counter pain medication.