At the office of Bahri Dental Group, our patients' dental care and well-being are our top priorities. Every member of our skilled and experienced dental team strives to ensure patient comfort and a stress-free dental experience. Our dedication to the consistent provision of compassionate and personalized attention along with gentle, precise dental care has earned our office the respect and trust of our patients.
While we do everything we can to preserve the integrity of your natural smile, it's sometimes necessary to extract a tooth to protect your oral health and overall well-being.
A "baby" or deciduous tooth that is over retained (reluctant to fall out), severely decayed, or damaged
In most cases, a baby tooth will fall out as scheduled as the underlying permanent one begins to erupt into place. However, occasionally a baby tooth continues to remain firmly attached to the bone. Either the roots of the baby tooth have failed to resorb and shrink as intended, or the baby tooth has become anklylosed and fused to the supporting bone. The problem is that over-retained baby teeth can disrupt the development and alignment of your child's smile. As we monitor your child's smile as they grow, we'll advise you if and when an extraction of a baby tooth is required to facilitate the eruption of its underlying permanent successor.
A permanent tooth that has extensive decay and is deemed non-restorable
Beginning as a simple pinpoint defect on the outermost enamel layer of your tooth, untreated dental decay will continue to compromise healthy tooth structure as it works its way to the inner layers of the tooth. Without proper dental care, a cavity can lead to significant damage to tooth structure, irreversible damage to the nerve of the tooth, a dental infection, and serious consequences to your dental health and overall well-being. When the tooth has sustained far too much structural damage and cannot be restored, a dental extraction may be required.
A permanent tooth that has been severely fractured or cracked and can not be restored
There are many different types of chips, cracks, and fractures that can affect your teeth. The extent of the damage that it causes will determine if there is enough intact tooth structure to save the tooth and the type of treatment required. In cases where too much tooth structure or the root of a tooth has also been compromised, an extraction may be necessary.
Advanced gum disease that has significantly compromised the tooth's supporting tissues
The most common cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease. When left untreated, periodontal disease, which affects the hard and soft tissues supporting your teeth, can lead to gingival pocket formation, gum recession, and diminishing alveolar bone. As advanced and untreated gum disease progresses, the teeth ultimately loosen, fall out, or require extractions.
Poorly positioned, impacted, or decayed wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth, which are also known as the third molars, are the last permanent teeth to develop in the oral cavity and the final ones to come into place. However, as is often the case, many wisdom teeth do not have sufficient room to erupt, are not developing correctly, develop extensive decay, or cause issues for the adjacent teeth and the surrounding tissues. Although the extraction of wisdom teeth sometimes gets recommended for an older patient, the early removal of troublesome or potentially problematic third molars in young adults is more often the case.
Overcrowded Teeth
A tooth size to jaw size discrepancy often results in a crowded and misaligned smile. More simply put, the upper and lower jaws are not large enough to accommodate all the permanent teeth. As part of an orthodontic treatment plan to optimally align teeth and establish an attractive, healthy, and functional bite, the extraction of select permanent teeth may be required.
Whatever the reasons for a dental extraction may be, you can rest assured that your dental care is in the best of hands at our office. As the first step in dental care, our dentist will review your medical and dental histories and discuss any special considerations in dental care.
It's essential to inform our office of any existing medical conditions or medications you are currently taking. In some situations, extra precautions, including premedication with antibiotics, a change in medication, and a medical clearance may be required. Follow all our pre-surgical directives and let us know if you are sick or have developed other symptoms on the day of surgery.
Our goal is to reduce any anxiety and help ensure patient comfort whenever a tooth extraction is necessary. In advance of the procedure, we'll discuss any medical considerations or precautions and go over our pre-surgical instructions. We'll also discuss post-surgical recommendations, including whether replacing the extracted tooth or teeth is needed and the best options in care.
To thoroughly assess the tooth and the type of extraction required, we perform a comprehensive examination and take digital radiographs as indicated. Extractions are typically categorized as either "simple" or "surgical extractions."
When the tooth is clearly visible in the mouth and the root anatomy is not extensively hooked, fused to the surrounding bone, or otherwise unusual, it usually falls into the category of a simple extraction. Once the tooth and the surrounding tissues get sufficiently numbed with a local anesthetic, our dentist will loosen any attached periodontal tissues and apply forceps to remove the tooth. As with all dental procedures, we do all we can to help ensure your comfort and relaxation throughout every step in care. For patients who are anxious about dental work or certain procedures, we can discuss additional options in dental sedation.
For teeth that are severely broken down, anklylosed, or impacted, a surgical extraction is often indicated. We may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to perform this procedure. During a surgical extraction, a small incision in the soft tissues and localized, precise removal of overlying bone provides greater access to remove the tooth. As with all tooth extractions, patients are given a local anesthetic to completely numb the involved tooth and the surrounding tissues. Once again, additional options in dental sedation, pre-surgical considerations, and directives are thoroughly discussed and explained.
As skilled and experienced providers of dental care, we recognize that every case is different and provide treatment that addresses the unique requirements of each patient. Depending on a patient's specific needs, we provide post-operative instructions, including special instructions, limitations on activities, medications, and follow-up care that support optimal recovery and healing. In some cases, post-op dental care may also include the involvement of a patient's physician. In general, and unless modified otherwise by our office, the following post-operative guidelines apply to simple extractions.
Maintaining gauze pressure
Following your extraction, some gauze to bite down on will be placed over the extraction site. By biting down and maintaining pressure on the gauze as instructed, any active bleeding should stop. You may change the gauze pad after the first hour. Continue to bite down for another 45 minutes if heavy oozing continues. While it's normal for a little oozing to continue for 24 hours, contact our office if you are still experiencing profuse oozing or bleeding.
Until the local anesthesia wears off
Until the local anesthetic has completely worn off, it's essential to protect yourself from unintentionally biting or injuring your lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue.
Take medications as prescribed
Antibiotics:
If you have been given a prescription for antibiotics, be sure to take the correct dosage and full course of medication as prescribed.
Pain management:
It's helpful to take a pain reliever before the local anesthetic completely wears off. Over-the-counter (non-aspirin) pain medication may be taken to relieve discomfort. Any prescription pain medication should only be taken as directed.
To facilitate healing
Do not rinse your mouth, spit, drink through a straw, or suck on candies. It's essential to allow the extraction site to clot and not dislodge the new clot once it has formed.
Applying ice
An ice-pack held in place in the facial area overlying the extraction site helps to control swelling. Apply the ice for 10-minute intervals during the first day following your procedure.
Avoid smoking
Smoking not only prevents clot formation, but it also interferes with healing. Avoid smoking and tobacco products for the first week.
Watch what you eat and drink
Stay away from hot or spicy foods and drinks for the first day or two. Also, refrain from drinking any carbonated or alcoholic beverages. Stick with a diet of soft foods and liquids for the first couple of days following surgery. Drink plenty of fluids.
Oral hygiene
Brush gently; it's essential to take great care not to disturb or irritate the extraction site for a few days. A very mild lukewarm saltwater solution can be used to freshen your mouth. Remember not to rinse or spit that first day or two. Simply let any liquids gently fall from your mouth into the sink.
An appointment for a follow-up visit
If sutures (stitches) were placed, or if a complex extraction, an infection, or other issues requires a visit to monitor your healing and progress, you will be given an appointment for follow-up dental care. It's essential that you keep this appointment as provided.
If you experience continued bleeding, ongoing pain, more swelling, have a bad taste in your mouth, or other unusual symptoms, contact our office.
You deserve quality dental and orthodontic care that's personalized to meet your individual needs, and at the office of Bahri Dental Group, you can rest assured your smile is in the best of hands. We deliver precise and gentle dental and orthodontic care, keeping you informed and relaxed throughout your procedure. If your tooth needs to be replaced, we'll discuss your best options, including dentures, fixed bridges, and dental implants. As the most advanced method of tooth replacement available, dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of a natural smile.
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jaw when preservation is not possible or would compromise oral health. The goal of an extraction is to eliminate infection, pain, or structural problems and to protect adjacent teeth and supporting tissues. At the office of Bahri Dental Group we prioritize conservative care and will recommend extraction only after evaluating less invasive options.
Extractions are planned procedures that include a clinical exam and radiographs to assess root anatomy and surrounding bone. Your dentist will review your medical history and explain whether a simple or surgical approach is required, along with any preoperative instructions. When appropriate, the team will discuss replacement options to restore function and appearance after healing.
Common reasons for extraction include severe tooth decay that leaves the tooth nonrestorable, extensive fracture or damage to the tooth structure, and persistent infection that does not respond to root canal treatment. Other frequent causes are advanced periodontal disease where supporting bone and gum tissues are compromised, impacted or problematic wisdom teeth, and overretained primary teeth that interfere with permanent tooth eruption. Extractions may also be part of an orthodontic plan to correct severe crowding.
Before recommending removal, dentists typically consider alternatives such as restorative treatments, periodontal therapy, or endodontic care when feasible. The decision balances the long-term prognosis of the tooth, overall oral health, and the functional needs of the patient. Any recommended extraction is accompanied by a discussion of the expected benefits and next steps for care.
The classification of an extraction as simple or surgical depends on how visible and accessible the tooth is and the complexity of its root anatomy. A simple extraction is usually performed when the tooth is fully erupted and can be removed with forceps after local anesthesia. Surgical extractions are required for teeth that are broken at the gum line, impacted, ankylosed, or have atypical root shapes that prevent uncomplicated removal.
To make this determination, the dentist performs a thorough oral exam and obtains digital radiographs to evaluate root position, bone density, and proximity to anatomical structures. If the case is complex or carries higher risk, the dentist may refer the patient to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for specialized care. The care team will explain the planned approach and any additional precautions before the procedure.
Preparation begins with a complete medical and dental history review so your dentist knows about medications, allergies, and any systemic conditions that could affect treatment. Follow any preoperative instructions provided, such as fasting guidelines if you will receive sedation, and notify the office if you develop an illness before your appointment. Bring a list of current medications and be prepared to discuss blood thinners, immunosuppressive drugs, or other medications that may require adjustments.
If you plan to use sedation beyond local anesthesia, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and remain available after the procedure. Wear comfortable clothing and avoid heavy makeup or jewelry that could interfere with monitoring equipment. Clear communication with the dental team about anxiety, medical conditions, or previous reactions to anesthesia helps ensure a safe and calm experience.
Local anesthesia is used routinely to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues so patients do not feel pain during the extraction. For patients who experience anxiety or require more extensive procedures, options may include inhaled nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or intravenous (IV) sedation administered and monitored by trained clinicians. In rare or very complex cases, general anesthesia may be used in a hospital or surgical center setting and requires additional medical evaluation.
Your dentist will review the benefits and risks of available sedation choices and recommend the most appropriate level based on the procedure, your medical history, and comfort needs. Monitoring and safety protocols are followed throughout treatment to maintain stable vital signs and a controlled recovery. Always follow pre- and post-sedation instructions to reduce the risk of complications.
On the day of the extraction, the provider reviews your medical history, explains the steps of the procedure, and ensures you are comfortable before delivering local anesthesia. For a simple extraction the provider loosens the periodontal ligament and removes the tooth with forceps; for a surgical extraction an incision and minor bone removal may be required to access and remove the tooth. Throughout the procedure the team monitors your comfort and may provide additional anesthesia or sedation as needed.
Patients typically feel pressure and movement but should not experience sharp pain once the area is numb. The duration of the procedure varies with complexity, from minutes for simple cases to longer for surgical extractions. After removal, the site is inspected, any necessary sutures are placed, and post-operative instructions are reviewed to support healing.
Immediately after an extraction, maintain gentle but firm pressure on the provided gauze to control bleeding and allow a stable blood clot to form. Avoid rinsing, spitting, using a straw, or smoking for the first 24 to 48 hours to prevent dislodging the clot and risking a dry socket. Keep activity light for the first day, apply intermittent ice to control swelling, and follow directions for any prescribed or recommended pain medications and antibiotics.
Begin gentle oral hygiene the day after surgery, avoiding direct brushing of the extraction site while keeping the surrounding teeth clean, and use a warm saltwater rinse beginning about 24 hours after the procedure unless otherwise instructed. Eat soft, nutritious foods and stay hydrated, gradually returning to a normal diet as comfort allows. Keep scheduled follow-up visits so the dentist can monitor healing and remove sutures if needed.
Most extractions heal without significant problems, but potential complications include a dry socket, prolonged bleeding, infection, swelling that worsens after several days, or, rarely, nerve injury with altered sensation. A dry socket typically presents as increasing pain a few days after extraction and is treated by the dental team to promote healing. Infections may present with fever, persistent pain, swelling, or a bad taste and usually require evaluation and antimicrobial therapy when appropriate.
Contact your dental office promptly if you experience heavy bleeding that cannot be controlled with gauze, severe or worsening pain despite medication, high fever, pus or increased swelling, or numbness that persists beyond the expected recovery period. Early assessment allows timely treatment and can reduce the risk of more significant issues. If directed, seek emergency care for uncontrolled bleeding or symptoms that suggest a systemic problem.
Follow-up appointments are commonly scheduled to monitor healing, remove sutures if present, and ensure the extraction site is closing properly. Replacement of an extracted tooth is often recommended to restore chewing function, prevent shifting of adjacent teeth, and maintain facial structure. Common replacement options include a removable denture, a fixed dental bridge, or a dental implant, and your dentist will discuss the best choice based on oral health, bone volume, and long-term goals.
Timing for replacement varies: immediate temporary solutions may be possible in some cases, while implants or bridgework often require a period of healing and, in some cases, bone grafting before placement. Your dentist will coordinate treatment sequencing and any necessary referrals to specialists to achieve a predictable and durable outcome. A personalized plan ensures the replacement meets functional and aesthetic needs while supporting oral health.
Bahri Dental Group emphasizes compassionate, personalized care delivered by an experienced clinical team in a comfortable, state-of-the-art environment. The practice follows stringent infection control and sterilization standards while using advanced diagnostic tools such as digital radiography to plan safe, effective treatment. Providers prioritize patient education and shared decision-making so you understand the reasons for extraction and the alternatives available.
When extractions are necessary, the team explains the procedure, anesthesia options, and aftercare expectations to reduce anxiety and support a smooth recovery. If specialized surgical care is required, the office coordinates referrals and continuity of care to ensure optimal outcomes and appropriate follow-up. Patients benefit from a practice that integrates dental and orthodontic expertise to address both immediate needs and long-term oral health goals.
Our goal is to help every patient experience the benefits of good oral health and a beautiful smile. We value the trust you have placed in our office and strive to provide solutions that meet your dental and orthodontic needs and expectations of care.
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