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Home/Dental Procedures/Tooth Extractions

Tooth Extractions

Illustration of a lower arch with a highlighted tooth for extraction

Tooth Extractions in Plano TX

You and Dr. Lakhani may determine that you need a tooth extraction for a variety of reasons. Some teeth require removal because they are severely decayed, have advanced periodontal disease, or are broken beyond repair. Other teeth need to be extracted if they are poorly positioned in the mouth, such as impacted wisdom teeth, or as preparation for orthodontic treatment.

The removal of even a single tooth can impact your chewing ability, jaw joint health, and lead to shifting teeth, which affects your overall dental health. To avoid these complications, Dr. Lakhani will always discuss alternatives to extraction as well as options for replacing an extracted tooth, including dental implants or bridges, to restore function and appearance.

The Extraction Process

You and Dr. Lakhani may determine that you need a tooth extraction for a variety of reasons. Some teeth require removal because they are severely decayed, have advanced periodontal disease, or are broken beyond repair. Other teeth need to be extracted if they are poorly positioned in the mouth, such as impacted wisdom teeth, or as preparation for orthodontic treatment.

The removal of even a single tooth can impact your chewing ability, jaw joint health, and lead to shifting teeth, which affects your overall dental health. To avoid these complications, Dr. Lakhani will always discuss alternatives to extraction as well as options for replacing an extracted tooth, including dental implants or bridges, to restore function and appearance.

Sectioning a Tooth

In some cases, a tooth is so firmly anchored or its root is curved in a way that prevents the socket from expanding enough for removal. When this happens, Dr. Lakhani may perform a routine procedure called sectioning, where the tooth is carefully divided into smaller sections. Each section is then removed individually for a safer, more controlled extraction.

01Firmly anchored, curved root
02Divided into smaller sections
03Each section removed individually

After Tooth Extraction

Following your extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately after your appointment. If bleeding continues, replace with a fresh gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. This may need to be repeated several times.

Once the clot has formed, it’s crucial not to disturb or dislodge it. For the next 72 hours, avoid rinsing vigorously, sucking on straws, smoking, drinking alcohol, or brushing near the extraction site. These activities could disrupt the clot and slow healing. Also, limit vigorous exercise for 24 hours to keep blood pressure stable and minimize bleeding.

Managing Discomfort and Supporting Healing

It’s normal to experience some pain and swelling after a dental extraction. Applying an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas to the area helps minimize swelling, which generally peaks within the first 48 hours. Take any prescribed pain medications exactly as directed. If your medication doesn’t seem effective, contact our office.

If antibiotics are prescribed, continue taking them for the full indicated duration, even if you feel better. Stay hydrated and choose nutritious, soft foods on the day of your extraction, returning to a normal diet as soon as you feel comfortable.

Oral Care After Extraction

After 24 hours, resume your normal dental routine — brushing and flossing daily — to promote healing and keep your mouth clean. Within a few days, you should feel much better and can resume regular activities.

If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, swelling that persists beyond 2-3 days, or any reaction to medication, call our office right away so Dr. Lakhani can assist you.

Ready for Gentle Tooth Extractions in Plano TX?

Trust your care to Dr. Salman Lakhani, a Prosthodontist with advanced training in both routine and complex tooth extractions, serving patients from Plano, Frisco, Allen, McKinney, and beyond.