Tooth extraction is usually a last resort. We would rather help you keep your natural teeth and restore your smile when a tooth is damaged. Sometimes salvaging a tooth is not possible, or removing it is what is best for your overall oral health.
We perform tooth extractions in-house at Westpark Village Dental Care, including same-day emergency cases. This guide walks you through the process step by step, along with what it costs and how sedation can help if you feel anxious about it.
Step 1 Evaluation and X-Rays
Once we confirm you need an extraction, we start by examining the tooth and reviewing your medical history. We use digital X-rays to assess the tooth’s position and the surrounding bone, which produce lower radiation than traditional film and let us review the image with you right away. Based on this evaluation, we determine the best approach for your extraction.
Step 2 Numbing and Sedation Options
Once you are ready, we numb the area around the tooth with local anesthesia. For most extractions, this is enough on its own.
If you feel anxious about the visit, we offer two sedation options. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask, wears off quickly, and lets you drive yourself home afterward. Oral conscious sedation is a pill you take before the appointment for deeper relaxation, and it requires a driver. Both options are available across a range of procedures, not just complex surgical cases.
Step 3 The Extraction Itself
Once the area is numb, we use specialized instruments to loosen the tooth within its socket, moving it gently back and forth until it comes free. You may feel pressure during this step, but you should not feel pain.
Step 4 Aftercare and Avoiding Dry Socket
After the tooth is removed, we pack the area with gauze to promote clotting and walk you through how to care for the socket at home. This usually means staying away from spicy foods, avoiding the extraction site while brushing, and skipping straws or anything that creates suction in your mouth.
Suction and irritation at the site are the main causes of dry socket, a painful condition that exposes the bone and nerves underneath. Following these steps closely in the days after your extraction is the best way to avoid it.
We do everything we can to make sure you have a positive experience throughout the process. If you have concerns or questions about your upcoming extraction, do not hesitate to bring them up with us. Our goal is to make the procedure as smooth as possible.
If This Is a Same-Day Emergency
If a tooth breaks or you are in sudden pain, you do not need to wait for a scheduled opening. We offer same-day emergency extractions and can usually get you seen the day you call. Reach us at (972) 964-8989 to describe what is going on and get scheduled.
What a Tooth Extraction Costs
We accept most PPO and DPO insurance plans and file claims on your behalf, so you are not stuck managing paperwork after a stressful day. If you do not have insurance, our membership plan is $36 a month per person, with no waiting period, no deductible, and no annual maximum, plus 15% off other services you may need afterward.
Short FAQ
Do you offer same-day emergency dental care?
Yes. The practice provides same-day emergency care for patients with acute tooth pain, a broken or knocked-out tooth, a lost crown, or signs of infection. Call (972) 964-8989 to describe your situation and get scheduled. Emergency services include tooth extractions and root canal therapy when needed.
What should I do if I have a severe toothache?
Call the practice at (972) 964-8989 as soon as possible. Severe or persistent tooth pain can indicate infection, a cracked tooth, or nerve damage, all of which require clinical evaluation before the cause can be identified and treated. Do not wait to see if it resolves on its own. Same-day appointments are available for acute pain.
Do you offer sedation for patients with dental anxiety?
Yes. Two sedation options are available: nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask during the procedure and wears off quickly, patients can drive themselves home afterward. Oral conscious sedation involves taking a prescribed pill before the appointment for deeper relaxation. This option requires a driver. Both options are available across a range of procedures for patients who need them.
Ready to get your extraction scheduled? Request an appointment at Westpark Village Dental Care and we will find a time that works for you.
About the Author
Dr. Jordan Hardin is a talented and professional dentist with a passion for helping people. He believes that dental treatment is something to be enjoyed, not dreaded. Dr. Hardin earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry in Lincoln and has since then expanded his knowledge of techniques and technology through multiple professional organizations. To schedule an extraction at Westpark Village Dental Care, call (972) 964-8989 or visit the website to discover other services.