When a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or cannot be predictably restored, removing it may be the best way to protect your oral health. Tooth extraction is a common procedure that can often be completed quickly and comfortably with appropriate anesthesia.
Schedule a consultation to have your tooth evaluated and discuss what to expect from treatment. Call (303) 444-2255.
Experienced Surgical Care
Dr. Benjamin Foley, Dr. Thao Le, and Dr. Michael Schiappa provide tooth extractions ranging from straightforward cases to more complex surgical procedures. Their training in oral and maxillofacial surgery allows them to manage difficult extractions, provide anesthesia options, and plan treatment when bone grafting or dental implant placement is needed.
When a Tooth May Need to Be Removed
Whenever possible, preserving a natural tooth is preferred. However, extraction may be recommended when a tooth cannot be restored or when removing it is necessary as part of a larger treatment plan.
Common reasons for tooth extraction include:
- Severe tooth decay. Extensive decay can leave too little healthy tooth structure for a filling, crown, or other restoration.
- Dental infection. A tooth may need to be removed when an infection cannot be predictably treated with root canal therapy or other restorative treatment.
- A broken or damaged tooth. Trauma or a severe fracture can sometimes damage a tooth beyond repair.
- Advanced periodontal disease. Loss of the bone and tissue supporting a tooth can eventually cause it to become loose or unable to be maintained.
- Orthodontic treatment or crowding. In some cases, an orthodontist may recommend removing one or more teeth to create enough space to properly align the remaining teeth.
Tooth Extraction as Part of Dental Implant Treatment
When a tooth is being removed with plans for a future dental implant, the extraction can be planned with the next stage of treatment in mind. Your oral surgeon will evaluate the bone around the tooth and determine the best approach for preparing the site for an implant.
In most cases, socket preservation, a type of bone graft performed at the time of extraction, may be recommended to help preserve the shape and volume of the jawbone for future implant placement.
For certain patients, the dental implant can be placed during the same procedure as the tooth extraction. This is known as an immediate dental implant. When immediate placement is not appropriate, the extraction site is bone grafted and allowed to heal before the implant is placed.
Simple and Surgical Tooth Extractions
The way a tooth is removed depends on its position, condition, and how much of the tooth is accessible above the gumline.
A simple extraction may be possible when enough of the tooth is visible to loosen and remove it without making an incision in the gum tissue.
A surgical extraction may be needed when a tooth is broken near or below the gumline, difficult to access, or cannot be removed predictably with a simple extraction. A small opening may be made in the gum tissue, and the tooth may be divided into smaller sections so it can be removed gently.
What to Expect During Tooth Extraction
Before your procedure, your oral surgeon will examine the area and review your dental imaging to evaluate the tooth, its roots, and the surrounding structures. Your medical history, medications, and anesthesia options will also be reviewed.
During the extraction, you may notice pressure or movement as the tooth is loosened and removed, but you should not feel sharp pain. Once the tooth has been removed, the area is cleaned and stitches may be placed when needed.
Most patients are able to return home shortly after the procedure. If anesthesia is used, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home after your appointment.
Recovery and Healing
Recovery after a tooth extraction is generally straightforward. Mild soreness, swelling, and light bleeding may occur during the first few days and should gradually improve.
Post-operative instructions will be provided to help protect the extraction site and support proper healing. Most patients can gradually return to their normal diet and activities as the area becomes more comfortable.
Long-Lasting Pain Relief With Exparel®
Exparel is a long-lasting local anesthetic that can be placed in the surgical areas during wisdom teeth removal to provide extended pain relief after surgery. The medication is released gradually and can help reduce the amount of prescription opioid pain medication needed during recovery.
We may also prescribe Journavx®, a non-narcotic medication that can help manage discomfort and decrease the need for narcotic pain medication following wisdom teeth removal.
Patient Video Testimonials
Kendra, Extraction and Dental Implant
Linda, Extraction and Dental Implant
Anna, Extraction and Dental Implant
Dental Insurance and Payment Options
If you have Delta Dental Premier or Cigna, your estimated portion is collected at the time of service. For all other plans, payment is due in full, and any insurance reimbursement will be sent to you once your claim is processed.
Financing options are also available through Cherry, which allows you to split treatment costs into manageable monthly payments.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have been told that a tooth needs to be removed, Dr. Benjamin Foley, Dr. Thao Le, and Dr. Michael Schiappa can evaluate the tooth and explain your treatment and anesthesia options.
To book a consultation at our oral surgery office in Boulder, CO, call (303) 444-2255 or visit us at 1420 28th St, UNIT 100, Boulder, CO.
Call UsFAQs
How long does a tooth extraction take?
A straightforward extraction may take only a few minutes once the area is numb. Surgical extractions or procedures involving multiple teeth can take longer.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Recovery depends on which tooth is removed and whether a simple or surgical extraction is needed. Many patients feel comfortable returning to normal daily activities within a few days, while more complex extractions may require additional recovery time. Your surgeon will let you know what to expect based on your procedure.
When can I eat normally after a tooth extraction?
Soft foods are recommended immediately after an extraction. As soreness decreases, you can gradually add more solid foods and return to your normal diet. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods near the extraction site during the early stages of healing.
Do I need to replace a tooth after it is extracted?
It depends on which tooth is removed and why. Wisdom teeth and teeth extracted for orthodontic treatment usually do not need to be replaced. Other missing teeth may be replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or another restoration to restore function and help maintain the surrounding teeth.
Is it possible to have a tooth extracted without sedation?
Yes. Many tooth extractions can be performed with local anesthesia alone, which numbs the area while you remain awake. Sedation is not always necessary and may be offered based on the complexity of the extraction, your comfort level, and your individual needs.
Do I have to see an oral surgeon for a tooth extraction?
Not always. General dentists perform many straightforward tooth extractions. You may be referred to an oral surgeon if the tooth is difficult to remove, a surgical extraction is needed, sedation is desired, or additional treatment such as bone grafting or dental implant placement is planned.
Where can I have a tooth extracted in Boulder?
Foley & Le Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons provides simple and surgical tooth extractions at our Boulder office. Our surgeons can evaluate the tooth, review your anesthesia options, and coordinate with your general dentist when additional restorative treatment is planned.
