Initial healing usually takes 7–10 days, while full bone healing may take several weeks.
Dr. Ginger Unegbu’s expertise spans various dental domains, showcasing excellence in preventive care, restorative treatments, cosmetic enhancements, and advanced dental care.
Your teeth are designed to last a lifetime, but there are situations where removing a tooth is the healthiest option. Severe decay, infection, trauma, or overcrowding can all make extraction necessary to protect your oral health and prevent further complications.
At Glow Up Dentistry in Richmond, TX, our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. However, when a tooth cannot be saved, we perform safe, comfortable tooth extractions with a focus on minimizing pain, speeding up healing, and protecting your smile.
Let’s explain what tooth extractions are, the signs you may need one, when extraction becomes an emergency, the steps involved in the procedure, recovery expectations, and more. If you believe you may need a tooth extraction, contact us right away.
A tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is carefully removed from its socket in the jawbone. Extractions may be simple (for visible, fully erupted teeth) or surgical (for broken, impacted, or hard-to-reach teeth).
Dentists recommend tooth extraction only when necessary, such as when infection threatens surrounding teeth, bone, or overall health. Removing the damaged tooth can relieve pain, stop infection, and create space for proper oral function.
Several signs may indicate that a tooth extraction is needed, including:
When decay has destroyed too much of the tooth structure, restoration may no longer be possible.
Periodontal disease can weaken the bone and tissues supporting the tooth, causing looseness and discomfort.
If an infection cannot be treated with a root canal or antibiotics, extraction may be required to prevent spread.
Teeth fractured below the gum line often cannot be saved and may need to be removed.
Extractions are sometimes necessary before orthodontic treatment to create proper spacing.
Tooth extraction becomes an emergency if you experience:
Severe, unrelenting tooth pain
Facial or jaw swelling
Signs of infection such as fever or pus
Trauma that breaks a tooth beyond repair
Delaying treatment can allow infection to spread to the jaw, sinuses, or bloodstream, making prompt care essential.
The extraction process typically includes:
Examination & X-rays – Assess tooth position and condition
Anesthesia – Local anesthesia administered for comfort
Tooth Removal – Tooth gently loosened and removed
Cleaning the Area – Socket cleaned to prevent infection
Aftercare Instructions – Guidance provided for healing
In some cases, stitches may be placed to promote proper healing.
Most tooth extractions take 20 to 40 minutes, depending on complexity. Surgical or impacted teeth may take longer. You should plan to spend about 60 minutes in the office total.
Do Tooth Extractions Hurt?
Modern tooth extractions are virtually pain-free thanks to advanced anesthesia techniques. You may feel pressure during the procedure, but not pain. Mild soreness afterward is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication
Tooth extraction can:
Relieve severe pain
Eliminate infection
Prevent damage to surrounding teeth
Improve oral health
Prepare your mouth for orthodontic or restorative treatment
The cost of tooth extraction varies based on:
Type of extraction (simple vs surgical)
Tooth location
Condition of the tooth
Emergency vs scheduled treatment
Insurance coverage
On average:
Simple extraction: $75–$300
Surgical extraction: $200–$600
Our team will verify your insurance benefits and explain financing options if needed.
If you’re dealing with tooth pain, infection, or damage, don’t wait. The experienced team at Glow Up Dentistry in Richmond, TX is here to provide gentle, effective tooth extractions and help you get back to feeling your best.
We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible financing options for patients without coverage.
Avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, and hard or crunchy foods for at least 48 hours.
Most patients return to normal activities the next day, depending on discomfort level.
In many cases, replacing the tooth with a bridge, implant, or denture is recommended to prevent shifting.
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot is lost too early, exposing bone and causing pain. Following aftercare instructions helps prevent it.
