Tooth Extraction

Is a Tooth Extraction the Only Way to Treat a Severe Toothache?

Not always. If your toothache is caused by an infection in the pulp, a root canal may save the tooth. However, when the infection spreads beneath the gums or poses a risk to your overall health, extraction is often the safest option.

At Marvel Dental, extractions are recommended only after less invasive treatments are no longer effective.

Oral Health Problems That Benefit from Tooth Extractions?

The Marvel Dental team tries to save permanent teeth whenever possible. But in some situations, restorative options, like dental fillings, crowns, and bridges, aren’t enough to fix the problem. 

Your provider might recommend a tooth extraction if you’ve been diagnosed with:

• Severe gum disease
• Severe tooth decay
• Impacted teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Loose teeth or other dental injuries

Sometimes, extractions are necessary to prepare for other medical procedures. For example, tooth extractions can reduce the risk of infection if you’re preparing to undergo an organ transplant.

Types of Tooth Extractions at Marvel Dental

Yes. The Marvel Dental team offers two types of tooth extractions, including:

Simple extractions

Simple extractions pull a tooth from its socket. During treatment, your dentist numbs your mouth with an anesthetic and uses handheld tools to loosen it. Once your tooth is loose, your provider uses forceps to carefully remove it. Then, they fill the socket with gauze and provide recovery instructions.

Surgical extractions

Surgical extractions remove impacted wisdom teeth that cannot break through your gum line. Your Marvel Dental provider administers a local anesthetic and makes small incisions along your gum line to access the impacted tooth. They split the tooth into several small pieces and use forceps to remove them.

Afterward, your dentist rinses and cleans out the empty tooth socket, stitches your gums, and provides recovery instructions.

Recovery After a Tooth Extraction?

Some mild swelling, bleeding, and soreness are normal after the procedure. To support healing:

• Rest and avoid strenuous activity for the first 24–48 hours

• Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing near the extraction site

• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid using a straw

• Take any prescribed antibiotics or pain relievers as directed

Most patients feel back to normal within a couple of days, though complete healing may take about a week.

Call the nearest Marvel Dental office to schedule a tooth extraction consultation, or book your appointment online today.