Sometimes a tooth cannot be saved and must be removed to protect your oral health. Whether you need a simple extraction or surgical removal of a damaged tooth, Dr. Azzouni performs extractions with precision and care. Using advanced techniques and sedation options, we ensure your comfort throughout the procedure and promote faster healing.
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While our goal is always to save natural teeth when possible, extraction becomes necessary in certain situations to prevent further complications and protect your overall oral health.
Common reasons for tooth extraction include:
Dr. Azzouni performs both simple extractions (for visible teeth) and surgical extractions (for broken, impacted, or below-the-gum teeth) with expertise and care.
Dr. Azzouni will examine the tooth, take x-rays, and discuss your sedation options. We’ll review your medical history and any medications you’re taking. For simple extractions, local anesthesia is often sufficient. For more complex cases, IV sedation is available for maximum comfort.
The area around the tooth is numbed with local anesthesia. For simple extractions, the tooth is gently loosened and removed—typically taking just a few minutes. For surgical extractions, a small incision may be needed to access the tooth. You’ll feel pressure but no pain. Most extractions take 20-40 minutes depending on complexity.
Gauze is placed over the extraction site to control bleeding and promote clot formation. You’ll receive detailed post-operative instructions. Most patients experience minimal discomfort managed easily with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication. You can return home immediately (with a driver if sedation was used).
Bite on gauze for 30-45 minutes • Rest with head elevated • Apply ice packs (20 min on, 20 min off) • Eat soft, cool foods • Avoid smoking, straws, and spitting • Take pain medication as prescribed
Socket begins to heal and fill in • Full soft tissue healing within 2-4 weeks • Bone healing continues for 3-6 months • Consider tooth replacement options (implant, bridge) if needed
Custom crown attached • Looks and feels like natural tooth • Resume all normal eating • Implants can last 20+ years with proper care
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal
Simple extractions typically cost $150-$300 per tooth. Surgical extractions range from $250-$600 depending on complexity. We accept most dental insurance plans (extractions are often covered) and offer financing through CareCredit. We’ll provide a detailed cost estimate before your procedure.
No. The procedure itself is not painful because the area is completely numbed with local anesthesia. You’ll feel pressure and movement, but no pain. After the numbness wears off, most patients experience mild discomfort for 1-3 days, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. If you’re anxious, IV sedation ensures you’re completely comfortable and unaware during the procedure.
Initial healing of the socket takes 1-2 weeks. Complete bone healing takes 3-6 months. Most patients feel back to normal within 3-5 days. Swelling and discomfort are typically minimal after the first few days. Following post-operative instructions carefully promotes faster healing.
For the first 24-48 hours, stick to soft, cool foods: yogurt, smoothies, applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soup (lukewarm, not hot), pasta, and ice cream. Avoid crunchy, chewy, hot, or spicy foods. Don’t use straws—the suction can dislodge the blood clot. Gradually return to your normal diet as comfort allows.
Yes, in most cases. Leaving a gap can cause adjacent teeth to shift, bone loss in the jaw, bite problems, and difficulty chewing. Replacement options include dental implants (best long-term solution), bridges, or partial dentures. Dr. Azzouni will discuss your tooth replacement options during your consultation.
Get relief from pain and protect your oral health. Contact us today.