What Is A Tooth Extraction?
Dental extraction is never our first choice of treatment at Hearthstone Dentistry, but when a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or interfering with the growth of other teeth, removing it may be the best way to protect your oral health. Teeth that are broken below the gumline, have advanced decay, or have become loose due to gum disease may not be strong enough to support a filling, crown, or other restoration. In these cases, Dr. Monica Chau may advise extracting the tooth to help prevent infection, relieve pain, and make room for future treatment. Our goal is to remove the problem tooth while minimizing disruption to the surrounding tissue, reducing discomfort, and supporting a smooth recovery. Whether you need a single tooth pulled or several removed as part of a broader treatment plan, we'll explain each step and make sure you know exactly what to expect. If you're dealing with advanced decay or dental damage, schedule a consultation at Hearthstone Dentistry in Houston, TX to learn if a tooth extraction can help you find comfort and avoid complications.
How Does A Tooth Extraction Work?
Dental extractions are performed in our office using local anesthesia on the area near the tooth being treated. Before your extraction, we'll take digital x-rays to evaluate the shape of the roots, the condition of the surrounding bone, and the position of nearby teeth. After numbing the area, Dr. Chau will start by gently loosening the tooth using gentle, controlled movements to preserve as much healthy bone as possible. If the tooth is impacted or difficult to access, we may need to perform a surgical extraction, which involves making a small incision in the gum and splitting the tooth to remove it in sections. Most extractions take less than an hour, though surgical extractions may take longer. You may feel some pressure during the procedure, but we'll ensure you're anesthetized and comfortable.
Most patients feel some soreness or swelling for the first couple of days, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and cold compresses. We may prescribe medication in certain cases or recommend a saltwater rinse after the first 24 hours to keep the area clean. You should avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, or doing any strenuous activity during the initial recovery period after your tooth extraction.
What Are the Benefits of Tooth Extractions?
Most patients are understandably reluctant when it comes to the idea of having a tooth pulled, but it can be a crucial step in preventing infection, relieving pain, or allowing you to move forward with a tooth replacement. When handled properly, a tooth extraction lays the foundation for the next phase of care, providing benefits that include:
- Relieves pain and pressure from decayed or damaged teeth
- Removes teeth that are interfering with alignment or function
- Creates space for future orthodontic or restorative treatment
- Reduces the risk of infection from impacted or partially erupted teeth
- Often a necessary step before dentures, implants, or full-arch restorations
- Planned with precision to support faster healing and minimal complications
Hearthstone Dentistry Reviews
I absolutely loved the patient experience in the this office. I am new in the area and so l just did a goggle search and several dental offices pulled up. My spirit lead me to this office. From the moment l walked into the office l felt welcome. I had spoken with Tabitha earlier that morning to confirm my appointment and I recognized the voice when l walked in. She made sure my paperwork was completed and then introduced me to Pascha. She took all my X-rays and pictures of my teeth.. she was so gentle and kind, asking me if l was okay throughout the procedure. That is huge in my books because it showed she cared/cares. Dr. Chau and Pascha were amazing; they work so well together. They were engaging, as well as reassuring. They made me feel comfortable and safe in their care. Dr. Chau explained and reviewed all the X-rays and pictures. She stopped periodically to ask if I had questions. Dr. Chau and her crew on 10/24/2023 were phenomenal. I highly recommend you checking out Hearthstone Dentist . It’s full of joy.
Everyone is very pleasant. She has quite the uplifting and bubbly personality. Thorough in explaining what the procedure is and ask if I have any questions. Checks that you are doing ok while procedure is being done. Great dentist!
My first time at the dentist and this office made it such a joyful experience. The receptionist at the front desk was helpful and very kind. The dental assistant was patient and informative and the dentist was very thorough, answered all my questions and funny/witty. Great experience!
Very professional and courteous. Always professional, and always taking care of the patient.
I have been coming here for many years. The original dentist retired and I have been seeing Dr Chau since 2021 and she does an excellent job. She takes time to explain all she does and asked for me to ask any questions or concerns I have.
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Simple and Surgical Tooth Extraction
When a tooth is severely compromised, removing it the right way can help protect the rest of your mouth and prevent more serious problems down the road. At Hearthstone Dentistry in Houston, TX, Dr. Chau provides simple and surgical tooth extractions with careful planning, clear communication, and a focus on comfort throughout the process. Schedule a consultation to find out whether extraction is the right next step and how we can support your recovery from start to finish.