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Tooth pain, crowding, or damage can leave you searching for relief. If you’re considering a tooth extraction, The Dentists of Omaha are here to make the process clear and comfortable. With experienced, award-winning dentists at each of our four locations, we combine advanced technology and personalized care for all of our services to give patients a positive experience.
If you’re interested in discussing whether you may or may not need a tooth extraction, please contact The Dentists of Omaha by calling us at Hillsborough: 402-802-9956, Village Pointe: 402-505-7474, Ralston Square: 402-307-6215, or Dundee: 402-307-6244 today.
What to Expect During a Dental Extraction
We want to make your extraction experience as smooth as possible. Most extractions are completed in-office with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Before the procedure, your dentist will explain the steps involved, discuss any potential risks, and review post-extraction care instructions.
During the extraction, you may feel some pressure, but the anesthesia ensures that you won’t feel pain. Our team will be there to monitor your comfort and address any concerns.
After the procedure, we’ll provide clear instructions on how to care for the area, helping you navigate the healing process confidently.
What Are the Most Common Issues That Lead to a Tooth Extraction?
The most common issues that lead to a tooth extraction include disease and damage. Sometimes, crowding can also be a factor. Here are a few specific problems that may call for tooth extraction:
- Decay or infection that has spread deep into a tooth
- Trauma, injury, or extensive tooth damage
- Lack of space for all of your teeth
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Severe gum disease
It’s never fun to hear that you need to have a tooth removed. However, it is a safe procedure that we only recommend when it’s necessary for your oral health. Tooth extraction alleviates painful and unsightly dental issues to bring out the best in your smile.
What Are the Restrictions After Having a Tooth Pulled?
You will need to avoid several things after getting a tooth extraction to avoid irritating the gums and the area where the tooth was pulled. Try to avoid the following:
- Smoking
- Rinsing your mouth vigorously
- Strenuous activity
- Alcoholic beverages
- Extremely hot or cold liquids
- Drinking through a straw
- Brushing or flossing next to where the tooth was removed
- Using mouthwash
- Eating hard or chewy foods
Our dentists will give you more information and let you know when you can resume your regular routine. In the meantime, follow the recommended post-op care instructions, and do not try to rush the healing process. Remember that these restrictions are in place for your benefit and to help ensure the success of the procedure.
How Do I Prepare for a Tooth Extraction?
Some steps to prepare for a tooth extraction will vary from one patient to another. For example, you may or may not be prescribed antibiotics to take in the days leading up to the procedure. Our dentists will provide detailed pre-operative instructions to get you ready for your extraction.
In general, you may need to:
- Fast before your appointment
- Wear loose-fitting clothing or a short-sleeved shirt
- Quit smoking
- Report signs of a cold, nausea, or vomiting
- Arrange for transportation
Following these instructions can help improve the results of your tooth extraction procedure.
Procedure Healing and Recovery Time
It often takes between seven to ten days for a socket to heal after tooth extraction. If there are any complications during the recovery process, then the healing period can be longer than that.
Factors such as the size of the extracted tooth and the type of extraction will also play a role. It is not uncommon for complete healing to take several months following a tooth extraction.
Why Choose The Dentists of Omaha?
At The Dentists of Omaha, our team combines expertise with genuine dedication to the Omaha community. With four convenient locations in Hillsborough, Village Pointe, Ralston Square, and Dundee, we make it easy to access personalized care close to home.
Our dentists are highly trained in a full range of dental services, from general to cosmetic and orthodontic care. They’re also committed Nebraskans who take pride in helping local families and individuals maintain their oral health.
We’re deeply involved in the Omaha area, supporting organizations like the Nebraska Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, local schools, and the Teammates mentoring program. When you visit The Dentists of Omaha, you’re joining a practice that values community connection and strives to create a positive impact. Our team takes the time to get to know each patient, fostering trust through open communication and an understanding of your dental needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Tooth Extractions Painful?
With the right tools, experience, anesthetics, and equipment, tooth extractions can be nearly painless. The anesthesia helps eliminate the pain almost entirely, and we can give you more if you have a high tolerance to the pain-numbing medication. You may feel the pressure of the tooth being extracted, but that is also usually painless. We will do everything we can to make sure you feel calm and comfortable.
How Long Does It Take To Feel Normal After Tooth Extraction?
Under regular circumstances, your mouth should feel normal within a few weeks of having your tooth extraction procedure. By that time, any discomfort should lessen. It should be okay to chew on the treated side of your mouth. You will also be able to resume other daily activities. If you are experiencing any pain or difficulty chewing on the side of your mouth that was treated, give us a call and schedule an appointment.
How Do I Know if My Tooth Extraction Is Healing Properly?
You can easily monitor your healing progress after a tooth extraction if you know what symptoms to expect. Light bleeding, mild swelling, and manageable discomfort are normal and to be expected during the initial phase of your recovery period.
However, some symptoms may indicate that a complication has occurred during healing. Contact our dentists if you experience signs of infection, dry socket, or other symptoms, including:
- Severe swelling or delayed swelling
- New or intense pain
- Heavy bleeding
- Fever
- Vomiting
When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Your dentist may need to extract teeth for several different reasons:
- Decay, infection, or breakage may have damaged the tooth structure beyond repair. When restoration is not an option, extracting the infected tooth is the healthiest choice.
- Sometimes, wisdom teeth will have to be extracted.
- Teeth may need to be removed in a mouth that needs more space for orthodontic treatment.
- Patients with severe gum disease may experience damage to the supporting tissues and bone structure, which can make tooth extraction necessary.
Our dentists will spend time with you to discuss the pros and cons of tooth extraction, and together, you can decide if this treatment is right for you.
What Happens if I Don’t Have a Tooth Extracted?
When a tooth that needs extraction is left untreated, it can lead to further complications. A decayed or infected tooth, for example, can spread infection to neighboring teeth, gums, and even the jawbone, causing increased pain, swelling, and a higher risk of abscesses.
In cases of severe crowding or impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth, avoiding extraction can put pressure on nearby teeth, leading to alignment issues and potential damage. If gum disease has affected the tooth, leaving it in may worsen gum and bone health over time, making future treatments more complex.
Leaving a problematic tooth untreated may create more discomfort and require more extensive treatment down the road, so it’s best to consult with your dentist to understand the healthiest choice for your situation.
Can I Replace My Tooth After Extraction?
Yes, replacing a missing tooth after extraction is often recommended to support surrounding teeth, preserve alignment, and maintain chewing function. Options like dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures can address these needs and help you maintain the look of your smile.
However, there are situations where replacement may not be immediately recommended. If the extraction site is still healing, especially after a complex extraction, your dentist may suggest waiting before placing an implant or bridge. If we extracted the tooth to relieve overcrowding or extracted wisdom teeth, replacement may not be necessary.
If you’re considering a replacement, we’ll guide you on the options that best fit your needs and any timing considerations specific to your situation.
Does Insurance Cover Tooth Extraction?
In many cases, dental insurance covers part of the cost of tooth extraction, particularly if it is deemed medically necessary due to decay, infection, or trauma. Our Financial Coordinators are here to assist you in understanding your specific coverage. During your consultation, we will create a treatment plan and review an estimated breakdown of your insurance benefits, ensuring you know what to expect for any out-of-pocket costs.
For those needing additional support, we offer various payment options, including CareCredit financing, to help make dental care accessible. If you have questions about your insurance coverage or need assistance with financing, please contact our office.
Schedule Your Procedure Today
If you believe you need an extraction performed due to decay or for orthodontic purposes, The Dentists of Omaha can provide you with the necessary dental health services. Our dentists and dental care professionals take their time to get to know you and your family and ensure that you have a comfortable general dentistry experience. We aim to provide the best possible dental care to give you a smile you can be proud of.
Contact us today at Hillsborough: 402-802-9956, Village Pointe: 402-505-7474, Ralston Square: 402-307-6215, or Dundee: 402-307-6244 to speak to a team member at one of our four locations in Omaha. We’re sure we have a location near you!