We only recommend extraction after confirming a filling, crown, or root canal genuinely won't work. Smile Center Dentistry walks through aftercare before you're numb, not after.
Extraction is often treated as a last resort elsewhere, and we hold to that same standard here. Recovery matters as much as the procedure itself, which is why aftercare gets real attention here.
A second opinion within our own team is standard for borderline cases before extraction is finalized. Extraction is treated as the last option, not the default one.
We're upfront about which category your case falls into before treatment, not after complications arise. Knowing which category applies to you shapes what we tell you about recovery time.
If you're considering an implant later, socket preservation grafting can protect bone volume at the time of extraction. This step is optional, and we explain the trade-offs honestly.
You leave with written aftercare instructions and a direct number to call if something doesn't feel right. Most complications are preventable with the right aftercare, which is why we take this step seriously.
Not every extraction is the same procedure — here's what's typically involved depending on your case.
For teeth that are visible and accessible, a simple extraction using an elevator and forceps is usually quick. We confirm the socket is stable before you leave.
For teeth that are broken at the gumline or difficult to access, a surgical approach may be needed, coordinated with an oral surgeon. Recovery expectations are discussed honestly, since these cases take longer to heal.
This step is optional but often recommended if you're considering replacing the tooth later. We explain the added cost and healing time clearly before you decide.
Antibiotics may be prescribed alongside extraction depending on infection severity. We monitor healing closely on infected extraction sites.
Written aftercare instructions cover swelling, diet, and dry socket prevention specific to your procedure. We're reachable directly if something feels off during recovery.
We discuss replacement options — bridge, denture, or implant — before treatment, not after the teeth are already gone. Staging complex cases in phases is sometimes the better approach, and we'll say so.
We ask about pain level and swelling to determine how quickly you need to be seen.
We explore alternatives to extraction first, and only proceed once it's genuinely the best option.
Local anesthesia keeps the procedure comfortable; simple cases are typically quick, surgical cases take longer.
We're reachable directly during recovery if swelling or pain seems off.
"Simple extraction, done in about 20 minutes, and the aftercare sheet answered every question I would have called about."
"Socket preservation grafting was explained clearly since I want an implant eventually. Glad I did it at the same visit."
"Infected tooth pulled same week I called. Antibiotics beforehand and the pain was gone within days."
"They called it correctly as a simple case, no surprise complications, no surprise bill."
"Needed three teeth out and they staged it over two visits instead of doing everything at once. Recovery was much more manageable."
The extraction itself is done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure — some soreness afterward is normal. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient for simple extractions.
We determine this with a digital X-ray and exam before your appointment day, not as a surprise mid-procedure. Knowing this in advance also sets accurate recovery expectations.
Dry socket happens when the healing blood clot dislodges — avoiding straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing for the first few days helps prevent it. Following aftercare instructions closely is the best prevention.
If you're considering an implant later, grafting at the time of extraction helps preserve bone for that future procedure. Grafting adds a modest amount to recovery time but can save complications later.
Simple extractions typically heal within a week to ten days; surgical cases can take longer. We schedule a follow-up to confirm healing is on track for your specific case.
We break down each component of the cost so there's no confusion about what you're paying for. Multiple-tooth cases are quoted per tooth so you can see the full breakdown.
Our team serves Severance and the surrounding zip codes with the same careful, aftercare-focused approach at every visit. Whether it's one tooth or several, our Severance team handles the full case from consult through recovery.
Licensed, careful, and local to Severance — call and get an honest recommendation.
Call +1-866-227-2801