Services
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Our goal is always to save your natural teeth whenever possible, but sometimes removing a tooth is the healthiest choice for your smile. A tooth that is badly damaged, infected, or crowding other teeth can cause pain and lead to bigger problems if left in place.
At Shore Drive Dental, we perform extractions with a gentle, careful approach. We make sure you are comfortable, explain every step, and help you plan what comes next for your smile.
When an Extraction May Be Needed
Severe Tooth Decay
When decay is too extensive for a filling, crown, or root canal, removing the tooth may be the best option.
Advanced Gum Disease
Gum disease can loosen teeth by damaging the bone and tissue that hold them in place.
Broken or Cracked Teeth
A tooth that is fractured below the gumline often cannot be repaired.
Crowding or Wisdom Teeth
Removing a tooth can make room for proper alignment or relieve problems caused by wisdom teeth.
Types of Tooth Extractions
Simple Extraction
Used for teeth that are fully visible above the gumline. The tooth is gently loosened and removed after the area is numbed.
Surgical Extraction
Used for teeth that are broken at the gumline or have not fully come in, such as some wisdom teeth. A small incision may be needed to remove the tooth.
During your exam, we will let you know which type of extraction you need and what to expect.
Benefits of Tooth Extraction
Relieves Pain
Removing a damaged or infected tooth stops the source of discomfort.
Stops Infection
Extraction prevents bacteria from spreading to nearby teeth, gums, and bone.
Protects Surrounding Teeth
Removing a problem tooth can prevent crowding and damage to healthy neighbors.
Supports Long-Term Oral Health
Clearing out a failing tooth creates a healthy foundation for future treatment.
Tooth Extractions
Replacing a Missing Tooth
After an extraction, replacing the tooth helps protect your bite, prevent nearby teeth from shifting, and restore your smile. Your options may include:
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Dental Bridge A fixed restoration that fills the gap using the teeth on either side for support. Learn more about crowns and bridges.
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Implant Crown A natural-looking crown placed on a dental implant that does not rely on neighboring teeth. Learn more about implant crowns.
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Snap-On Smile A removable, non-invasive option that can fill in spaces from missing teeth. Learn more about Snap-On Smile.
Treatment Process
STEP 01
Examination and X-Rays
We examine the tooth and take X-rays to see its position, roots, and the surrounding bone.
STEP 02
Numbing the Area
We use local anesthesia so the tooth and surrounding area are completely numb.
STEP 03
Removing the Tooth
We gently loosen and remove the tooth, taking care to protect the surrounding tissue.
STEP 04
Protecting the Site
We place gauze over the area to control bleeding and help a healthy blood clot form.
STEP 05
Follow-Up Care
We share aftercare instructions and check your healing, then plan any tooth replacement if needed.
Aftercare Tips
Bite on Gauze
Keep gentle pressure on the gauze for the time recommended to help control bleeding.
Avoid Straws and Smoking
Suction and smoking can dislodge the blood clot and slow healing.
Stick to Soft Foods
Choose foods like yogurt, soups, and mashed potatoes for the first few days.
Rinse Gently
After the first 24 hours, gently rinse with warm salt water to keep the area clean.
Call our office if you notice severe pain a few days after your extraction, heavy bleeding, or swelling that gets worse. These can be signs of a complication, such as dry socket, that we should check.
Why Shore Drive Dental
Why Choose Shore Drive Dental for Tooth Extractions?
At Shore Drive Dental, we understand that having a tooth removed can feel stressful. We take a calm, patient-first approach, explain every step in plain language, and make your comfort our priority from start to finish. Our holistic, fluoride-free approach to care continues through every part of your treatment.
If you are in pain, call us right away and we will do our best to see you promptly. We accept most major dental insurance plans, offer flexible financial options, and have convenient hours, including Saturday appointments by request.
Tooth Extractions
FAQs
The area is fully numbed, so you should feel pressure but not pain during the extraction. Mild soreness afterward is normal and usually improves within a few days.
Most patients feel better within a few days. The gum tissue continues to heal over the following weeks.
Stick to soft, cool, or lukewarm foods for the first few days, and avoid chewing near the extraction site.
Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the socket is dislodged or doesn’t form properly, which can cause increased pain a few days after the extraction. Avoiding straws and smoking helps lower your risk. Call us if you think you may have it.
In most cases, replacing a missing tooth is recommended to protect your bite and keep nearby teeth from shifting. Wisdom teeth are usually the exception.
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of an extraction. Our team can help you review your benefits before treatment.
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Book Your Appointment Today!
Is a painful or damaged tooth holding you back? Call Shore Drive Dental or visit our Virginia Beach office to schedule your extraction consultation.
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