Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure used to remove teeth that are severely damaged, decayed, or impacted. By safely removing compromised teeth, extractions help relieve pain, prevent the spread of infection, and protect your overall oral health.
Extractions are often recommended when a tooth cannot be restored with other treatments and poses a risk to neighboring teeth or gums.
Summary: Tooth extraction is a safe, effective way to remove compromised teeth, alleviate pain, and prevent more serious dental issues. This treatment supports your overall oral health and creates space for future restorative care when needed.
We perform routine and surgical extractions at our dental office in Boulder, CO.
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the bone. Extractions may be recommended for a variety of reasons, including:
- Severe tooth decay or infection
- A fractured tooth that cannot be restored
- Impacted or overcrowded teeth
- Advanced periodontal disease
- Baby teeth that are not falling out naturally
- Preparation for orthodontic treatment
We perform both routine and surgical extractions in our office and also offer socket preservation (bone grafting) when needed to support future dental procedures such as implants.
Sedation Options for Your Comfort
Your comfort is a top priority. We offer a full range of sedation options to help you feel calm and at ease during your procedure:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild relaxation
- IV sedation administered by a licensed dental anesthesiologist for deeper relaxation
- General anesthesia for complete sedation in more complex cases
Our team will walk you through each option and recommend the approach that best suits your needs and preferences.
Step-by-Step Tooth Extraction Process
Here is what to expect when you visit us for a dental extraction:
- Consultation and imaging: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your dental health, including 3D CBCT imaging and digital X-rays to assess the tooth and surrounding bone.
- Local anesthesia and sedation: We thoroughly numb the area around the tooth to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure. If you have chosen sedation, we will administer it according to your treatment plan and monitor you closely to keep you relaxed and at ease.
- Tooth removal: For a routine extraction: We gently loosen the tooth with specialized dental tools and remove it with minimal trauma. For a surgical extraction: We may need to make a small incision in the gum, remove a small amount of bone around the tooth, or section the tooth into pieces for easier removal.
- Socket Preservation: A bone graft may be placed into the socket to prevent bone loss and preserve the site for a future dental implant.
- Post-extraction instructions: We provide detailed at-home care guidelines to promote healing and prevent complications like dry socket or infection.
Tooth Extraction Healing Timeline
Healing from a tooth extraction typically takes a few days. We will provide you with detailed written aftercare instructions to guide you through each step of your recovery. Here’s a general timeline and guidance:
First 24 Hours
- Bite gently on gauze to help form a blood clot.
- Apply an ice pack (15 minutes on/off) to reduce swelling.
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities.
- Do not rinse, spit, or use a straw to protect the clot.
Days 2–3
- Swelling may peak and then begin to subside.
- You may resume light brushing but avoid the surgical site.
- Rinse gently with warm salt water starting on day 2.
- Continue to avoid smoking or drinking through a straw.
Days 4–7
- Pain and swelling should steadily improve.
- Stitches may dissolve on their own or be removed by our team.
- Resume a normal oral hygiene routine (being gentle around the site).
Let us know if you experience prolonged bleeding, pain, or signs of infection.
Foods To Eat After a Tooth Extraction
Eating the right foods can aid healing and reduce discomfort. For the first few days, stick to soft, cool, and nutrient-rich foods:
Best Foods to Eat
- Yogurt or pudding
- Applesauce or mashed bananas
- Protein smoothies (no straws)
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal or cream of wheat
- Broths and soft-cooked pasta
Foods NOT to Eat
Avoid foods that can disturb the blood clot, irritate the surgical site, or get stuck in the extraction area, including:
- Chewing gum
- Hard or crunchy foods (chips, nuts, raw vegetables)
- Sticky foods (caramel, taffy, gummy candies)
- Spicy dishes
- Very hot foods or drinks
- Foods with small seeds or grains (sesame seeds, popcorn)
Avoiding these foods during the initial healing period helps prevent complications and supports a smooth recovery.
Avoid Smoking, Vaping, and Nicotine Products: Smoking, vaping, and using any nicotine-containing products, including chewing tobacco, nicotine pouches (like Zyn), lozenges, and gum, can delay healing and significantly increase the risk of dry socket. For the best recovery, avoid all tobacco and nicotine products for at least 72 hours and ideally until the area has fully healed. If you need help with quitting or reducing use, our team is here to support you.
Preserving Your Oral Health After an Extraction
After healing, we will discuss long-term solutions to restore your smile and support your oral health. Options may include:
- Dental implants
- Dental bridges
- Partial dentures
Replacing a missing tooth can improve chewing, preserve jawbone structure, and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting out of place.
Supporting Your Smile After Tooth Removal
After an extraction, it is important to have a plan to restore your oral health and maintain a strong, confident smile. We provide clear guidance, modern options, and personalized recommendations to help you move forward with confidence. Whether you are considering a dental implant or bridge, we will work together to choose the solution that fits your goals and lifestyle.
Key Takeaway: Tooth extraction is often the first step toward better oral health. Replacing the missing tooth with a modern restoration helps you maintain proper chewing, protect your bite, and feel good about your smile.
Insurance and Membership Options
We are in-network with Delta Dental Premier, Cigna DPPO Plus, Anthem, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, and we also accept patients with out-of-network benefits. For those without dental insurance, our in-house membership plan offers an affordable option for routine care.
Our office proudly serves Boulder and the surrounding communities of Superior, Louisville, Lafayette, Longmont, and Erie.
To book an appointment at our dental office in Boulder, CO, call (303) 442-6141 or visit us at 777 29th St, Unit 300 Boulder, CO 80303.
FAQs
How long does it take to heal from a tooth extraction?
Most patients heal within 7–10 days. Surgical extractions may take slightly longer. We provide specific aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery.
Is tooth extraction painful?
With local anesthetic and sedation options, the procedure itself is not painful. Mild soreness after the procedure is common and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
What happens if I do not replace a missing tooth?
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can slowly shift into the open space, which may lead to crowding, bite changes, or uneven wear. Over time, the bone that once supported the tooth can also shrink. Replacing a missing tooth helps keep your bite stable, maintain jawbone health, and make chewing and speaking easier. We are happy to review all your options and answer any questions you have about timing or cost.
Can I brush my teeth after an extraction?
You can brush your other teeth as usual starting the same day as your extraction, but avoid brushing directly over the surgical area for the first 24 hours. After the first day, you can gently clean the area with a soft-bristled toothbrush, being careful not to disturb the blood clot. Continue to brush and floss the rest of your mouth normally to keep it clean. We will provide detailed instructions on how to keep the area clean and promote proper healing.
