Dental Extractions in Amarillo, TX

Windmill Dental offers general dental extractions and wisdom teeth extractions. While we want our patients to keep their natural teeth as much as possible, there are cases in which a gentle dental extraction is necessary. We are happy to help restore our patients’ smiles and have them smiling big again in no time. Contact our office today!

man holding his jaw in pain while looking at a laptop

When does a tooth need to be removed?

A tooth may need to be removed if it is severely decayed or damaged beyond repair. Extraction is also necessary for advanced gum disease, where the tooth’s support structure is compromised. Impacted wisdom teeth, which can cause pain and infection, often need removal. Teeth that are crowded or causing alignment issues may also be extracted as part of orthodontic treatment. Additionally, teeth that are broken at the gum line or have severe infection that can’t be resolved with root canal treatment may require extraction to prevent further complications and maintain positive oral health.

Are dental extractions painful?

Dental extractions are generally not painful due to the use of local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth. You might feel pressure during the procedure, but typically not pain. Our office also provides oral conscious sedation and general anesthesia for more complex extractions and for patients who want to feel calm and relaxed or have no memory of their treatment. After the procedure, some discomfort and swelling are normal as the anesthesia wears off, but this can usually be managed with prescribed pain relievers and over-the-counter medications. We will also provide you with aftercare instructions to help minimize discomfort and promote healing.

What is the recovery process from a dental extraction like?

The recovery process from a dental extraction involves several steps to ensure proper healing. Initially, you should rest and avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours. Keep the gauze pad in place to control bleeding and change it as needed. Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling. Eat soft foods and avoid using a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot. Maintain good oral hygiene by gently rinsing with salt water but avoid brushing the extraction site for the first day. Pain and swelling typically subside within a few days, and full healing occurs over one to two weeks. Should you have any questions or concerns at any time, always feel free to get in touch with our team.