Tooth removal
A tooth is removed when it can't be repaired: it's broken below the gum, loose from gum disease, or badly decayed. This page covers simple removals, done in the office by Dr. Holbrook, for adults and children.
What happens
Usually one visit.
- 01
Step 1: Exam and options
Dr. Holbrook shows you the tooth, explains whether it can be saved, and gives you the fee in writing.
- 02
Step 2: Numbing
She numbs the area and checks that it's numb before she begins.
- 03
Step 3: Removal
You feel pressure and pushing, not sharp pain. She tells you what she is doing as she goes.
- 04
Step 4: Aftercare
We give you written instructions and a number to call.
If a tooth is hard to reach or broken deep below the gum, she'll tell you and refer you to a dentist who does that work.
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
We use a local anesthetic. You may feel pressure and hear sounds. Raise a hand and we stop. We don't offer sedation in this office.
If you wait
An infected tooth can cause pain and swelling that spreads. Sometimes a tooth can be repaired instead; she'll say if that's an option. Leaving a gap can let neighboring teeth shift.
Risks and after-care
Bleeding, swelling and soreness are expected for a few days. A dry socket, where the healing clot is lost, can cause pain after a few days; call us if it does. Call us too for a fever, swelling that grows or bleeding that won't stop.
How it's billed
The fee is in your written estimate before we start. We don't bill insurance, and we give you an itemized receipt.
How fees work
Questions about tooth removal
Can I eat afterward?
Soft, cool food once the numbness wears off. We give you written instructions.
What about replacing the tooth?
Dr. Holbrook can talk through the options for a gap, and refer you where the work is done elsewhere.
What if I'm worried about the pain?
Tell us. We can walk you through each step before it happens and stop whenever you ask.
Provided by a general dentist
Dr. Shari Holbrook, DDS, general dentist, licensed in New Mexico.