Tooth Extractions – Pasadena, TX
Creating a Way for a Healthier Smile
As your dental team, we always want to preserve your natural teeth. However, if extensive decay or damage has made that impossible, then we will need to perform an extraction. Although this might initially make you nervous, you don’t have to worry – our team will make the entire process as smooth and seamless as possible. So, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at our Pasadena dental office or read on if you are interested in learning more about this emergency dental treatment.
Why Choose Magic Touch Dental of Pasadena for Tooth Extractions?
- Same-Day Dental Appointments
- Dentures & Dental Bridges Available
- We Treat Dental Patients of All Ages
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
The only time you can expect our team to recommend a tooth extraction is if there is no other possible restorative solution that will fix the problem. That’s often the case if:
- You are suffering from significant decay that is at risk of spreading to your other teeth and putting them in danger.
- You recently sustained a facial injury that resulted in a broken tooth. Its location and level of damage do not make it possible to save.
- You have a child whose baby tooth refuses to fall out, and the adult tooth is trying to erupt.
- You are dealing with advanced gum disease that is causing one or more of your teeth to become loose.
- You have an abscess that is putting your overall health at risk.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
At our Pasadena dental office, we offer two different types of tooth extractions:
- Simple Extraction – If the tooth in question has already broken through the gumline, then we can rock it back and forth until it’s ready to be removed.
- Surgical Extraction – If the tooth in question is trapped beneath the surface, then Dr. Verjee will need to create a small incision to assess it. Then, he can remove it section by section.
Remember, the first step of the entire process is always the same: to numb your mouth thoroughly. That way, you won’t feel any discomfort during your time in the treatment chair. When we’re done, we will also provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure the healing process is pain-free as well.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
To help you stay comfortable while you heal, we will provide you with a list of aftercare instructions, including:
- Changing the gauze pads as needed
- Using a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time
- Taking OTC pain medication as directed
- Eating extremely soft foods, like applesauce
- Drinking water (without using a straw)
- Brushing and flossing carefully around the extraction site
- Keeping your head elevated, including while you sleep
Around the three-day mark, any sensitivity or soreness that you’re experiencing should start to subside. If your symptoms seem to be getting worse, or you develop a fever, then contact us right away.
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
Thanks to modern anesthesia, you shouldn't feel pain during the extraction itself. Dr. Verjee will numb the area before the procedure begins, and if you're feeling anxious, sedation options are also available to help you stay relaxed. You may feel some pressure or movement sensations as the tooth is loosened, but this shouldn't cause pain—it may just feel a little strange.
After treatment, you may experience some mild soreness and tenderness around the area where the tooth was extracted, but it's nothing to be concerned about. The discomfort may last for a few days as the area heals, then it should fade. During this time, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs to take the edge off.
Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?
In many cases, yes. If a tooth is decayed, cracked, or infected, treatments like fillings, crowns, or root canals may be able to save it before extraction becomes necessary. Our team typically reserves extraction for situations where your tooth is too damaged to restore, severely infected, or causing overcrowding.
During your visit, Dr. Verjee will always explore every option to save your natural tooth first. If extraction turns out to be the best path forward, we'll walk you through exactly why and what comes next.
What Can I Do to Speed Up the Healing Time?
Following your aftercare instructions closely is the best way to support quick healing. Right after, bite down gently on gauze to help a blood clot form and avoid touching the site with your fingers or tongue. Also, avoid straws and vigorous rinsing for the first 24 hours. All these instructions are to keep the blood clot forming over the extraction site from being disturbed.
You should also stick to soft foods, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking, which can significantly slow healing. Finally, you can apply ice during the first day to help reduce swelling. By following these guidelines, most patients feel back to normal within a few days.
Can I Leave the Space Empty After a Tooth Extraction?
While it's technically possible, leaving a gap unaddressed isn't usually recommended. Neighboring teeth can gradually shift into the empty space, leading to misalignment, bite problems, and even bone loss in your jaw over time.
Depending on which tooth was removed, Dr. Verjee may recommend a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture to preserve your smile's function and appearance. If you're dealing with a dental emergency and need same-day care, our office also offers after-hours and weekend appointments to get you seen quickly.