Tooth Extractions
Tooth extraction can relieve pain, prevent infection, and protect surrounding teeth. When removal is necessary, our gentle approach ensures comfort, supports long-term oral health, and helps you return to smiling, eating, and living confidently with expert care you can trust.
Tooth Extractions in Fairhope, AL
At Point Clear Dental Associates, our goal is to help you keep all of your teeth. However, sometimes tooth extraction is necessary to ensure long-term oral health. At our clinic, tooth extractions are usually quick procedures. The most crucial aspect of this process is recovery.
Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure used to remove a tooth that is damaged, decayed, infected, or causing crowding in the mouth. Before the procedure, the area is gently numbed to ensure your comfort. The dentist then carefully loosens the tooth and removes it with specialized instruments. Extractions help relieve pain, prevent the spread of infection, and create space for proper alignment, especially before orthodontic treatment.
While the idea may sound intimidating, modern techniques make tooth extractions safe, efficient, and as comfortable as possible, helping you protect your overall oral health and smile.
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When is an extraction necessary?
A tooth extraction may be recommended when a tooth is too damaged to be saved with a filling, crown, or root canal. Common reasons include severe decay, advanced gum disease, a cracked tooth below the gumline, or an infection that keeps recurring. Extractions are also sometimes needed to make room for orthodontic treatment or to remove problematic wisdom teeth. Our team will always explore conservative options first, then explain why removal may be the healthiest choice. We’ll keep you comfortable and support a smooth, confident recovery.
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What can I eat after tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, choose soft, nourishing foods that are gentle on the healing area. For the first 24 hours, stick with options like yogurt, applesauce, smoothies (no straw), mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and warm soups that aren’t too hot. Drink plenty of water and avoid crunchy, spicy, acidic, or chewy foods that can irritate the site. Skip alcohol and tobacco, and try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth. As tenderness improves, gradually add more texture.
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How do I prevent dry socket after tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, protecting the blood clot that forms in the socket is key to preventing dry socket. Avoid smoking or vaping for at least 72 hours, and don’t use straws or spit forcefully, as suction can dislodge the clot. Rest the first day and keep physical activity light. For 24 hours, skip rinsing; afterward, gently rinse with warm salt water as directed. Eat soft foods, stay hydrated, and chew on the opposite side. Take medications exactly as prescribed, and call our office if pain worsens.
Need More Information on Tooth Extraction?
If you have additional questions on the tooth extraction process or would like to schedule your visit, contact our team today!
