At Montgomery Dental Associates & Implantology Center, Dr. Mark Hagigi provides gentle, effective tooth extractions when necessary to preserve your oral health. While our goal is always to save your natural teeth whenever possible, sometimes extraction is the best option for your long-term dental health and comfort.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
There are several situations where removing a tooth becomes the recommended treatment option:
- Severe Decay or Damage: When a tooth is too damaged from decay or trauma to be saved with a filling, crown, or root canal
- Advanced Gum Disease: If periodontal disease has caused the tooth to become loose and unsalvageable
- Orthodontic Treatment: To relieve overcrowding and allow other teeth to align properly
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When third molars become trapped beneath the gumline or emerge at problematic angles - Infection Risk: To prevent the spread of infection to other teeth or parts of the body
- Baby Teeth: When they don’t fall out naturally and block permanent teeth from emerging
Dr. Hagigi always explores all conservative treatment options before recommending extraction. If removal becomes necessary, you can trust that you’re in experienced hands.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
Before Your Procedure
Before moving forward with an extraction, Dr. Hagigi will take detailed X-rays to assess the tooth’s position and surrounding bone structure. We’ll also review your medical history and current medications, and our team will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. Finally, we’ll discuss sedation options to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
During Your Extraction
Dr. Hagigi offers two types of extractions:
Simple Extraction
For visible teeth, Dr. Hagigi will numb the area with local anesthesia. Using specialized instruments, he’ll gently loosen the tooth and remove it with dental forceps. Most patients feel pressure but no pain during this process.
Surgical Extraction
For impacted wisdom teeth or teeth broken at the gumline, a small incision in the gum tissue may be necessary. Dr. Hagigi may need to remove a small amount of bone or divide the tooth into sections for easier removal. We offer sedation options to keep you comfortable throughout surgical extractions.
After Your Procedure
After your extraction, we’ll place gauze over the extraction site to control bleeding. Dr. Hagigi may place dissolvable stitches if needed. Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions and you’ll receive recommendations for pain management. We’ll schedule any necessary follow-up appointments with you as well.
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often cause problems because they’re the last to emerge, usually between ages 17-25. Benefits of removal include:
- Preventing damage to neighboring healthy teeth
- Avoiding painful infections and swelling
- Reducing risk of cysts or tumors forming around impacted teeth
- Maintaining proper alignment of your other teeth
- Eliminating hard-to-reach areas that contribute to decay and gum disease
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions
Is tooth extraction painful?
No. Dr. Hagigi ensures you’re properly numbed before beginning the procedure. You’ll feel pressure but not pain during the extraction. After the procedure, any discomfort can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medication.
How long is the recovery period after tooth extraction?
Most patients can return to normal activities within 24-48 hours. Initial healing of the socket takes about 1-2 weeks. Complete healing of the bone may take several months, though this won’t affect your daily comfort or activities.
What can I eat after having a tooth pulled?
Stick to soft foods for the first few days after extraction. Good options include yogurt, applesauce, soup, scrambled eggs, and smoothies. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that might irritate the extraction site or dislodge the blood clot.
How can I prevent dry socket after extraction?
Follow Dr. Hagigi’s aftercare instructions carefully. Avoid smoking, using straws, spitting forcefully, or rinsing vigorously for at least 24 hours after your procedure. These activities can dislodge the protective blood clot that forms in the socket.
When should I call the office after my extraction?
Contact our office if you experience severe pain not controlled by medication, excessive or prolonged bleeding, fever, or signs of infection like increasing swelling after 2-3 days.
Schedule Your Tooth Extraction Appointment
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been told you need an extraction, contact Montgomery Dental Associates & Implantology Center today. Dr. Hagigi provides gentle, effective tooth removal in a comfortable, caring environment. Call us at (301) 679-7786 to schedule your consultation, or fill out our online appointment request form. We offer flexible scheduling options, including some evening and weekend appointments, to accommodate your busy life. Don’t live with tooth pain—reach out today and take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.
