Tooth Extractions Gilbert, AZ
Advanced gum disease and tooth decay may have damaged your tooth. In such scenarios, a tooth extraction becomes necessary. You will be provided with a local anesthetic before the procedure. We provide sedation dentistry if you have dental anxiety. We have the right equipment to extract your teeth with utmost care. After the procedure, you may have swelling and discomfort, which can be eased with over-the-counter pain medications.
Tooth Extractions in Gilbert, AZ
At Riggs Family Dental, our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth—but in some cases, removing a tooth is the healthiest option. Whether it’s due to severe decay, infection, or crowding, Dr. Carlos Lopez provides gentle and effective tooth extractions and wisdom tooth removal, always prioritizing your comfort and long-term oral health.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction?
When you need a tooth removed, we ensure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible:
- Local Anesthesia is used to numb the area completely. You may feel pressure, but no pain.
- If the tooth has fully erupted, dental instruments are used to gently wiggle and lift the tooth from its socket.
- Once removed, we clean the area thoroughly and place gauze to stop bleeding and promote healing.
For impacted teeth (commonly wisdom teeth), a more advanced surgical approach may be needed:
- We create a small incision in the gum to access the tooth.
- If necessary, we’ll remove bone or tissue covering the tooth and may break the tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal.
- After removal, the area is cleaned, the gum flap is sutured closed, and gauze is placed to aid healing.
Healing at Home
At Riggs Family Dental, we perform extractions with the least invasive methods possible to minimize recovery time. You’ll rest in our dental office for a short period, and we recommend having a friend or family member drive you home.
To aid your recovery:
- Rest and hydrate well. Avoid very hot or cold drinks.
- Do not use straws for the first few days—suction can dislodge the blood clot.
- Use ibuprofen for swelling and apply ice packs for 15-minute intervals.
- Stick to soft, nutritious foods like smoothies, mashed potatoes, or pasta.
- Keep your mouth clean, but be gentle around the surgical site. You can rinse with warm water and baking soda or an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Avoid smoking or strenuous activity for at least 24 hours.
We’ll provide detailed instructions and may schedule a follow-up visit to ensure your healing is progressing well.
Signs You May Need a Tooth Extraction
If you’re experiencing any of the following, call us for an evaluation:
- Persistent pain or pressure in your tooth or jaw
- Pain when chewing or biting down
- Swelling, bleeding, or signs of infection such as pus
- A tooth abscess or advanced decay
Don’t ignore these signs—early treatment can prevent more serious dental issues.