When a tooth cannot be predictably restored or is causing ongoing problems, removing it may be the healthiest option. At Excellence in Dentistry, our dentists provide tooth extractions in Idaho Falls, Idaho, with careful planning focused on your comfort, oral health and what comes next after the tooth is removed.
Dr. Curtis Godfrey performs much of his own oral surgery, including tooth removal, dental implant placement and socket grafting. Dr. Brock Russell has also completed more than 250 tooth extractions, including more than 30 wisdom tooth extractions, giving our team practical experience with a range of surgical and nonsurgical extraction needs.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?
Our dentists will first evaluate whether a tooth can be preserved. Extraction may be recommended when keeping the tooth is no longer the most appropriate option for your health or treatment plan.
Reasons a tooth may need to be removed can include:
- Severe decay that has damaged too much tooth structure
- A tooth that is fractured or cannot be restored predictably
- Advanced infection or other problems affecting the tooth
- Significant periodontal damage around a tooth
- Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth
- A tooth that needs to be removed as part of a broader treatment plan
If there is a possibility of saving the tooth, our dentists may discuss alternatives such as root canal treatment or a dental crown before recommending removal.
What to Expect During Tooth Extraction Treatment
Your visit begins with an examination of the tooth and surrounding area. Our dentists will review the reason for the extraction, explain the procedure and discuss any additional treatment that may be needed afterward.
The extraction approach depends on factors such as the position of the tooth, how much tooth structure remains and whether the tooth has fully erupted. Some teeth can be removed with a straightforward extraction, while others require a surgical approach.
Our team will also review post-treatment instructions so you know how to care for the area while it heals and when to contact us if you have concerns.
Simple and Surgical Tooth Extractions
A simple extraction is generally used when enough of the tooth is visible above the gumline for it to be removed directly. A surgical extraction may be required when a tooth is broken below the gumline, impacted or otherwise difficult to access.
Dr. Godfrey performs surgical extractions as part of his broader oral surgery experience. Dr. Russell also has extensive extraction experience and provides surgical extractions when appropriate.
The type of extraction recommended depends on the individual tooth and surrounding anatomy rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Wisdom teeth can sometimes create problems if they do not erupt normally, become difficult to clean or affect surrounding tissues. When a wisdom tooth needs to be removed, our dentists will evaluate its position and determine the appropriate approach.
Dr. Russell has completed more than 30 wisdom tooth extractions as part of his clinical experience. If a case requires care beyond what is appropriate in our office, our team can explain the next step.
What Happens After a Tooth Is Removed?
Removing a tooth solves the immediate problem, but the long-term plan may depend on which tooth was extracted and how the space affects your bite and function. In some cases, replacing the missing tooth may be recommended.
Options can include dental implants, dental bridges or dentures, depending on the number and location of missing teeth and your overall treatment needs.
Dr. Godfrey also performs socket grafting when appropriate. This procedure may be considered after certain extractions to support the bone in an area that may later be evaluated for implant treatment.
Healing After a Tooth Extraction
Healing varies depending on the tooth, the type of extraction and your individual health. Our team will give you instructions for protecting the extraction site and managing the early healing period.
Following those instructions is important because the blood clot that forms in the extraction site plays a key role in healing. Our dentists will explain what activities to avoid, how to keep the area clean and when you can gradually return to your normal routine.
If pain, swelling, bleeding or another symptom is not improving as expected, contact our office so our team can determine whether the area needs to be evaluated.
Experience With Tooth Removal and Oral Surgery
Dr. Curtis Godfrey has more than 20 years of clinical experience and performs much of his own oral surgery, including tooth removal, socket grafting and dental implant placement. He also uses CBCT imaging and guided surgical techniques when detailed treatment planning is needed.
Dr. Brock Russell has completed more than 250 tooth extractions, including surgical and wisdom tooth extractions, and continues to expand his surgical and restorative skills through advanced continuing education.
This experience allows our dentists to evaluate both the immediate need for extraction and the restorative options that may be considered afterward.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
How do I know if a tooth needs to be extracted?
Our dentists will evaluate the tooth and determine whether it can be treated predictably or whether removal is the healthier option. Severe decay, fractures, infection, periodontal damage or an impacted tooth may all be reasons extraction is considered.
What is the difference between a simple and surgical extraction?
A simple extraction is generally used when the tooth is visible and accessible above the gumline. A surgical extraction may be needed when a tooth is impacted, broken or difficult to access.
Do you remove wisdom teeth?
Our dentists provide wisdom tooth extractions when appropriate. Dr. Russell has completed more than 30 wisdom tooth extractions and can evaluate the position and condition of the tooth before recommending treatment.
Will I need to replace a tooth after an extraction?
Not every extracted tooth needs to be replaced, but replacing certain missing teeth may help maintain function, appearance or bite stability. Our dentists can discuss the options based on which tooth was removed and your overall dental needs.
What is socket grafting?
Socket grafting is a procedure that may be performed after certain extractions to support the bone in the area. Dr. Godfrey can explain whether grafting is appropriate based on the extraction site and future treatment plan.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Recovery varies based on the tooth, the type of extraction and the individual patient. Our team will provide specific aftercare instructions and explain what to expect during healing.
Where can I get tooth extractions in Idaho Falls, Idaho?
Excellence in Dentistry provides simple and surgical tooth extractions for appropriate patients. Call 208-529-4321 to schedule an evaluation with our dentists.
Schedule a Tooth Extraction Evaluation
If you have a painful, damaged or problematic tooth and need to discuss tooth extractions in Idaho Falls, ID, call 208-529-4321 to schedule an evaluation at Excellence in Dentistry. Our dentists can determine whether the tooth can be saved or whether removal is the most appropriate next step.