Tooth Extractions
Call to set up an appointment
Do you need a tooth pulled?
Whether you need a wisdom tooth pulled, have been experiencing severe wisdom teeth pain, or require an extraction to address overcrowding, Dr. Fullington and his team can get you in our office and out of pain fast.
Here's what to expect regarding the tooth extraction process at Redeemed Smiles along with recovery tips, potential risks, insurance coverage, and more.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Tooth extractions are sometimes the only solution to certain dental issues. Here are the most common reasons patients require this procedure:
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth often emerge improperly, causing pain, swelling, or alignment problems.
- Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth is beyond repair with fillings or crowns, extraction may be necessary to prevent infection.
- Overcrowding: Extractions are sometimes performed before orthodontic treatments to make room for realignment.
- Gum Disease: Advanced periodontal disease can loosen teeth, requiring removal.
- Trauma: Teeth damaged beyond repair due to injury may need to be extracted.
If you’re unsure whether an extraction is necessary, a consultation with our experienced team can provide clarity.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Understanding the process can help reduce anxiety. Here’s what you can expect during your appointment:
- Step 1: Preparation -Â Our first step will be to take X-rays to determine whether the tooth is simple or impacted. The results of the x-ray will help us determine the best approach for the extraction.
- Step 2: Anesthesia -Â We offer various levels of anesthesia based on your comfort and anxiety level. You may chose to have either local anesthesia or full sedation.
- Step 3: Extraction - Once the area is fully numbed, we will carefully remove the affected tooth.
- Step 4: Stitches (if required) -  Some extractions may require stitches to aid the healing process. Don't worry, if stitches are needed they will be minimal, dissolvible, and hardly felt upon completion of the extraction.
Pulling Multiple Teeth at The Same Time
A common question we are asked is whether or not it is wise to have multiple teeth extracted at the same time. The answer to this is Yes, having multiple teeth extracted at the same time is often a good decision.
Having your wisdom teeth pulled, for example, is one type of extraction procedure that we highly recommend you have done in a single session. This minimizes the recovery process by consolidating it into one healing period. During your office visit, we will discuss any additional considerations, such as sedation options, to keep you comfortable during the entire procedure.
Recovering from a Tooth Extraction
It is important to follow these steps for healing from a tooth extraction to avoid complications and ensure a smooth recovery period:
- Manage Pain and Swelling: Use prescribed medications or over-the-counter pain relievers and apply cold compresses as directed.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soups for the first few days. Avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot at the extraction site.
- Â Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water, starting 24 hours after the procedure. Avoid brushing directly near the extraction site.
- Rest: Take it easy for at least 48–72 hours to allow your body to heal.
Most patients feel back to normal within a week, but follow the post-care instructions we provide to ensure optimal healing.
Returning to Normal Activities
Most patients can resume everyday activities within 24–48 hours of a simple extraction. However, heavy lifting, exercise, or strenuous activity should be avoided for at least a week to prevent complications. If you’ve had multiple teeth extracted or a more complex procedure, your recovery time may be longer. We will provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.
The Cost of a tooth extraction
The cost of a tooth extraction varies based on factors such as complexity and the anesthesia used. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:
- Simple Extraction: $75–$250 per tooth.
- Surgical Extraction (e.g., impacted wisdom teeth): $225–$600 or more per tooth.
Most dental insurance plans cover at least a portion (if not all) of the cost of a tooth extraction. Our friendly staff is happy to assist you navigate your insurance and figure out your coverage details, deductibles, and co-pays.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions
Ideally you should wait at least 2-3 hours after your wisdom tooth extraction before eating, and even then, you should only consume soft foods that don’t require chewing. For the first 24 hours, avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods, as well as drinking through a straw, since these can disrupt healing and lead to dry socket (a painful condition where the blood clot dislodges).
Best Foods to Eat:
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies (without a straw)
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal (lukewarm)
Foods to Avoid:
- Spicy or acidic foods (can irritate the wound)
- Crunchy or hard foods (chips, nuts, popcorn)
- Sticky foods (chewing gum, caramel)
- Alcohol and caffeine (can interfere with healing)
A non impacted wisdom teeth extraction begins at the $200 range. If the wisdom tooth is impacted and additional sedation is required, the price per tooth increases based on the associated factors.Â
You can usually stop using gauze 2–3 hours after your wisdom tooth extraction, once the bleeding has slowed down or stopped. Here’s what to keep in mind:
✅ Change the gauze every 30–45 minutes until it's only slightly pink or dry.
✅ Avoid spitting, rinsing, or using a straw for the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging the clot.
If heavy bleeding continues after 6 hours, or if it starts again after stopping, contact us so we can evaluate and give further instructions.
Like any medical procedure, tooth extractions come with potential risks. These include:
- Dry Socket: A condition where the blood clot dislodges prematurely, exposing the bone and nerves. This can be avoided by following post-care instructions closely.
- Infection: Keep an eye out for signs like fever, pus, or worsening pain, and contact your dentist immediately if they occur.
- Excessive Bleeding: While a small amount of oozing is normal, excessive bleeding should be evaluated promptly.
Our experienced team takes every precaution to minimize risks and ensure a safe experience. If you have any concerns post-extraction, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Take the first step toward restoring your oral health.
If you’re experiencing wisdom teeth pain, overcrowding, or other dental concerns, don’t wait—our team is ready to help.