Tooth Extractions

No. We use local anesthesia to completely numb the area before beginning the extraction. You'll feel pressure and movement but shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. After the numbness wears off, some discomfort is normal, but it's manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the experience is.

A simple extraction typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, including preparation and post-procedure instructions. Surgical extractions or wisdom tooth removal may take longer, usually 45 minutes to an hour. We'll give you a time estimate based on your specific situation during your consultation.

The cost varies depending on the type of extraction (simple vs. surgical), the tooth's location, and complexity of the case. Wisdom tooth extractions and surgical procedures cost more than simple extractions. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of extraction costs. We'll provide a detailed estimate and discuss payment options during your consultation.

Most patients feel significantly better within two to three days and return to normal activities within a week. The extraction site itself takes one to two weeks to close over with soft tissue, while complete bone healing takes several months. Following aftercare instructions carefully helps ensure a smooth, quick recovery.

Many patients return to work or normal activities the day after a simple extraction. For surgical extractions or wisdom teeth removal, we typically recommend taking one to three days off to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous physical activity for at least a few days regardless of the type of extraction.

Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Good options include yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies (no straw), soup (lukewarm, not hot), pudding, and oatmeal. Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods until the site heals. Gradually reintroduce firmer foods as comfort allows.

The suction created when using a straw can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the extraction site. This clot is essential for healing—without it, you may develop dry socket, a painful condition that delays healing. Avoid straws for at least 72 hours after your extraction.

Bite firmly on the gauze pad we provide for 30 to 45 minutes after your extraction. If bleeding continues, replace with fresh gauze and bite down for another 30 minutes. A moistened tea bag can also help—the tannic acid promotes clotting. Some oozing is normal for the first 24 hours. If heavy bleeding persists, contact our office.

Contact North Pointe Dental Center if you experience severe pain that doesn't improve with medication, excessive bleeding that won't stop, signs of infection (fever, increased swelling, pus), numbness that persists beyond 24 hours, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. These symptoms are uncommon but require prompt attention.

In most cases, yes. Exceptions include wisdom teeth and sometimes teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. When a tooth is removed and not replaced, neighboring teeth can shift into the gap, your bite can change, and the jawbone beneath the missing tooth begins to deteriorate. We'll discuss replacement options during your consultation.

We strongly recommend avoiding smoking for at least 72 hours after an extraction—longer if possible. Smoking significantly increases your risk of dry socket, slows healing, and raises the chance of infection. The chemicals in tobacco also impair blood flow to the extraction site. If you smoke, this is a great opportunity to cut back or quit.

Simple extractions are typically performed with local anesthesia only—you'll be awake but won't feel pain. For more complex extractions, anxious patients, or those having multiple teeth removed, we can discuss a referral to an Oral Surgeon for sedation options including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedation to help you relax. We'll recommend the best approach based on your needs.

A simple extraction removes a tooth that's fully visible above the gum line and can be loosened and lifted out in one piece. A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth is broken at the gum line, impacted, or otherwise not fully accessible. Surgical extractions may require incisions, bone removal, or sectioning the tooth into pieces. Recovery from surgical extractions typically takes a bit longer.

Yes. Tooth extractions are among the most common dental procedures performed and are very safe when done by a qualified dentist. We review your medical history, take necessary precautions, and use sterile techniques to minimize any risks. Complications are rare, and we provide thorough aftercare instructions to support smooth healing.

Signs of infection include increasing pain several days after the procedure, fever, swelling that worsens instead of improves, pus or discharge from the extraction site, a foul taste or smell, and difficulty opening your mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact our North Fort Myers office right away. Infections are treatable but require prompt attention.

Yes, but be gentle and avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, you can carefully brush around the area, being cautious not to disturb the clot. Keeping your mouth clean helps prevent infection. Starting 24 hours after extraction, gently rinse with warm salt water after meals to keep the area clean.