Tooth Extractions in Arlington, MA
While our goal at Dental Pro is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, there are times when removing a tooth is the best option for protecting your overall oral health. Our experienced team performs tooth extractions with precision and care, ensuring you are comfortable and well-informed every step of the way. Call us at (617) 607-2083 or contact us online to schedule your appointment today.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Tooth extractions are recommended at Dental Pro only when a tooth cannot be saved through other restorative means. There are several situations in which an extraction may be the most appropriate course of action, including severe tooth decay or infection that has damaged the tooth beyond repair and cannot be adequately treated with a filling or root canal, advanced gum disease that has caused significant bone and tissue loss around the tooth, a cracked or broken tooth with damage that extends below the gumline and cannot be restored with a cracked tooth repair or ceramic crown, overcrowding in preparation for orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign®, and impacted or problematic wisdom teeth that are causing pain, infection, or crowding (see our dedicated wisdom teeth extractions page for more information).
Our team will always explore every option to save your tooth before recommending an extraction. When an extraction is determined to be the best path forward, we will explain the reasons clearly and discuss all available treatment options — including tooth replacement solutions — so you can make a confident, informed decision about your care.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
Before your extraction begins, our team at Dental Pro will use digital X-rays to evaluate the position and condition of the tooth and surrounding bone. Local anesthesia will be administered to thoroughly numb the tooth, gum, and surrounding tissue so you do not feel pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure as the tooth is loosened and removed, but the area will be fully numb throughout.
There are two types of extractions. A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is fully visible above the gumline and can be removed with specialized instruments after the tooth is loosened. A surgical extraction is required for teeth that are broken at the gumline, have not fully erupted, or are impacted beneath the gum tissue. In these cases, a small incision may be made to access and remove the tooth. Our team will let you know which type of extraction is appropriate for your situation.
Once the tooth has been removed, a blood clot will naturally form in the socket — this is an important part of the healing process and should be protected. Our team will place gauze over the area and provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to support a smooth, comfortable recovery.
Aftercare and Recovery
Most patients recover well from a tooth extraction within a few days with proper aftercare. Some bleeding, mild swelling, and discomfort in the first 24 to 48 hours is normal. To support healing, bite down gently on the gauze provided to help control bleeding, avoid vigorous rinsing, smoking, or using a straw for at least 24 hours to protect the blood clot, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling, take any prescribed or recommended over-the-counter pain medication as directed, and stick to soft foods while the area heals. Contact Dental Pro at (617) 607-2083 right away if you experience prolonged bleeding, increasing pain after the first few days, fever, or any other concerns.
Tooth Replacement After an Extraction
After a tooth is removed, it is important to consider replacing it to prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, maintain your bite, and preserve jawbone density. At Dental Pro, we offer several tooth replacement options following an extraction, including dental implant restoration, dental bridges, dentures, and denture partials. Our team will discuss the most suitable replacement options for your specific situation during your consultation.
To learn more about all of the general and restorative dental services we offer at Dental Pro, visit our dental services page or call us at (617) 607-2083 today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions
When does a tooth need to be extracted?
A tooth extraction at Dental Pro is recommended when a tooth cannot be saved through other means — such as a filling, root canal, or crown. Common reasons include severe decay or infection, advanced gum disease, a tooth broken below the gumline, overcrowding ahead of orthodontic treatment, and impacted wisdom teeth. Our team always explores every option to preserve your natural tooth before recommending an extraction.
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
The extraction procedure itself should not be painful. Our team at Dental Pro administers local anesthesia to thoroughly numb the tooth and surrounding tissue before beginning. You may feel pressure or movement as the tooth is loosened and removed, but you should not feel pain. After the anesthesia wears off, some soreness and mild discomfort is normal and can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by our team.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Most patients feel significantly better within two to three days following a simple extraction at Dental Pro. The soft tissue typically heals fully within one to two weeks. Surgical extractions — such as those for impacted wisdom teeth — may require a slightly longer recovery. Following our aftercare instructions carefully is the best way to ensure a smooth and comfortable healing process.
What is dry socket and how can I avoid it?
Dry socket is a painful condition that can occur when the blood clot that forms in the extraction socket is dislodged or dissolves before the area has fully healed, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. To reduce the risk, avoid using a straw, smoking, or rinsing vigorously for at least 24 hours after your extraction at Dental Pro. Follow all aftercare instructions provided by our team, and call us at (617) 607-2083 if you experience increasing pain a few days after the procedure, as this may be a sign of dry socket that we can treat quickly.
Do I need to replace an extracted tooth?
In most cases, yes. When a tooth is removed and not replaced, the neighboring teeth can gradually shift into the empty space, your bite can change, and the jawbone in that area may begin to deteriorate over time from lack of stimulation. At Dental Pro, we offer several tooth replacement options including dental implant restoration, dental bridges, dentures, and denture partials. Our team will discuss the best option for your situation.
What is the difference between a simple and a surgical extraction?
A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is fully visible above the gumline and can be removed with dental instruments after the area is numbed. A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth is impacted, broken at the gumline, or has not fully erupted — requiring a small incision to access and remove the tooth. Our team at Dental Pro will evaluate your tooth using digital X-rays and advise which type of extraction is appropriate for your specific situation.
What can I eat after a tooth extraction?
Following an extraction at Dental Pro, stick to soft foods for the first few days while the area heals. Good options include yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies (without a straw), soup, scrambled eggs, and applesauce. Avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction site or dislodge the blood clot. Our team will provide full aftercare instructions at your appointment, and you are always welcome to call us at (617) 607-2083 if you have questions during your recovery.