A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This is usually recommended when a tooth is damaged beyond repair due to decay, infection, trauma, or crowding.
Our surgical tooth extraction services range from $0 to $363 per tooth depending on the type and complexity of the extraction. Certain insurance plans will cover 100% of the cost.
Office Fees
A tooth extraction usually takes less than an hour to complete. This time can vary depending on the complexity of the tooth and the number of teeth being extracted.
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Tooth extractions usually cause minimal pain, with the highest level of discomfort coming from pressure during the procedure. Following the extraction, there may be a small amount of soreness and tenderness.
Sedation DentistryA tooth extraction is usually recommended when a tooth is damaged beyond repair due to decay, a crack, trauma, or crowding. It’s a fairly routine procedure performed with local anesthesia or other dental sedation treatment solutions.
01.
The Exam: First, your dentist examines the tooth and the surrounding area. This usually includes an X-ray to see the tooth’s roots, position, and if there is an infection below the surface. If the tooth can be saved by a filling or crown, this will bring that to the surface.
Numbing the Area: Your mouth is then numbed with a local anesthetic. You’ll still feel pressure during the procedure, but not pain.
Loosening the Tooth: The dentist will gently rock the tooth back and forth to loosen it from the socket and the ligaments holding it in place.
Removing the Tooth: Once it’s loose enough, forceps are used to remove the tooth. This part is usually quick. If the tooth is impacted or broken, a surgical extraction may be needed, which involves making a small incision in the gum and possibly sectioning the tooth into smaller pieces.
Managing the Bleeding: After the tooth is out, gauze is placed over the socket, and you’ll bite down to help stop the bleeding and form a blood clot.
02.
Recovery and Aftercare: You’ll go home with aftercare instructions—things like no straws, no smoking, take it easy, and eat soft foods. Swelling, soreness, and mild bleeding are normal for the first day or two.
Post-Recovery Instructions and Guidelines:
A tooth extraction is usually necessary when a tooth is:
Extraction is the last option. Our team will explore all options to save the tooth before recommending removal.
Recovery from a tooth extraction typically takes about 7 to 10 days. Initial healing occurs within a few days, but complete recovery may take longer, depending on the tooth and the individual. Following post-op care instructions helps minimize discomfort, prevent complications like dry socket, and promote faster, smoother healing for optimal oral health.
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the site of the tooth extraction comes loose. It can be painful, but it is preventable and easily treated. To avoid dry socket, we will instruct you on how long to maintain a liquid-only or soft food diet before going back to your regular diet. This is to prevent knocking the blood clot loose.
If you are unsure if you are experiencing a dental emergency, please contact our dental office. Our team can determine if you need to visit our Herndon, VA, dentist office and can get you to our dental office as soon as possible.
Emergency Dentistry
Gum disease occurs when the bacteria in plaque infects the gum tissue. Plaque build-up is typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits. As gum disease progresses, it can lead to inflammation, bleeding gums and even tooth loss.
Gum Disease Treatment
500 Grove St Suite 303
Herndon, VA 20170
Monday - Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: Closed
