Same Day
Emergency extractions available
30–60 min
Typical procedure time
1–2 wks
Recovery period
Local
Anaesthesia used
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
At Orion Dental, we always aim to preserve natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are situations where removing a tooth is the most appropriate treatment. Extraction may be recommended when:
Severe Decay
A tooth too damaged by cavities to be restored with a filling, crown, or root canal treatment.
Advanced Gum Disease
Significant bone loss around the tooth due to periodontal disease can cause loosening that cannot be reversed.
Crowding
Removing teeth to create space is sometimes needed before orthodontic treatment can properly align the remaining teeth.
Impacted Teeth
Wisdom teeth or other teeth that are trapped beneath the gum line and cannot erupt correctly.
Fractured Teeth
A tooth fractured below the gum line that cannot be structurally repaired with a crown or other restoration.
Failed Root Canal
An infection or abscess that cannot be resolved even after root canal treatment may require extraction to stop its spread.
Your dentist will explain the reasons for recommending extraction, discuss alternatives if they exist, and answer your questions so you can make an informed decision.
Types of Tooth Extractions
Simple Extraction
A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is visible above the gum line and can be removed in one piece. The dentist loosens the tooth with a dental instrument called an elevator, then removes it with forceps. Simple extractions are performed under local anaesthesia and are typically straightforward procedures.
Surgical Extraction
A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth has not fully erupted, is broken at the gum line, or has curved or unusually shaped roots. The dentist may need to make a small incision in the gum tissue and, in some cases, remove a small amount of bone to access the tooth. The tooth may be divided into sections for easier removal. Surgical extractions also use local anaesthesia, and sedation is available for patients who need it.
What Should You Expect During an Extraction?
Examination & X-Rays
Your dentist reviews your medical history, takes digital X-rays to assess the tooth and surrounding bone, and explains the procedure. Let your dentist know about any medications you are taking, including blood thinners, and any medical conditions you have.
Anaesthesia
Local anaesthesia is administered to completely numb the area around the tooth. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or other sedation can be added for patients with anxiety.
Extraction
The area is numbed first, and you will feel pressure as the tooth is loosened. The tooth is carefully loosened with an elevator and removed with forceps. For surgical extractions, stitches may be placed to close the gum tissue. The entire procedure typically takes fifteen to forty-five minutes.
Aftercare Instructions
Once the tooth is out, gauze is placed to control initial bleeding. Your dentist will provide detailed written aftercare instructions before you leave and schedule any necessary follow-up appointments.
Need a tooth looked at urgently? We offer same-day emergency appointments for dental pain and acute problems at both our Scarborough and Milton locations.
Book an Emergency AppointmentWhat Should You Expect After an Extraction?
Recovery centres on protecting the blood clot that forms in the socket. Following these guidelines on the day of your extraction can help support a smooth recovery:
- Bite on gauze for thirty to forty-five minutes after the extraction to help the blood clot form
- Apply ice packs to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling (twenty minutes on, twenty minutes off)
- Take any medication only as directed by your dentist
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity for one to two days
What Should You Avoid in the First Few Days?
For the first few days, avoid anything that could disturb the extraction site:
- Eat soft foods and avoid hot liquids for the first twenty-four hours
- Do not smoke, use straws, or spit forcefully for at least forty-eight hours — the suction can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket
- Do not rinse vigorously on the day of extraction. Starting the next day, rinse gently with warm salt water several times daily
- Continue brushing and flossing other teeth, but avoid the extraction site for a few days
Critical Aftercare Warning: Protect the Blood Clot
Do not use a straw, smoke, or spit forcefully for at least 48 hours after your extraction. These actions create suction in the mouth that can dislodge the blood clot from the socket. If the clot is lost, the underlying bone and nerves are exposed — a painful condition called dry socket that requires an additional clinic visit to treat.
What Is Dry Socket?
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves before the wound has healed, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. It typically causes intense, radiating pain two to four days after extraction and may be accompanied by bad breath or an unpleasant taste.
If you suspect you have dry socket, contact our office promptly. Treatment involves cleaning the socket and placing a medicated dressing to relieve pain and promote healing.
Recovery Timeline
Understanding what to expect during your recovery can help you feel more prepared. While healing times vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual factors, here is a general guide:
- Days 1–2: Some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort are normal. The blood clot forms in the socket. Rest and follow your aftercare instructions carefully during this time
- Days 3–5: Swelling typically peaks around day two or three and then begins to decrease. Discomfort should be manageable with medication
- Days 5–7: For simple extractions, most patients feel significantly better by this point. Stitches (if placed) may dissolve or be removed
- Weeks 2–4: The gum tissue continues to heal and close over the extraction site. Most normal activities can be resumed
- Months 1–4: The bone underneath the extraction site gradually fills in and remodels. Full bone healing may take several months
For surgical extractions or wisdom teeth removal, the recovery period may be somewhat longer. Your dentist will provide specific guidance based on your procedure.
Sedation Options for Tooth Extractions
We understand that the thought of having a tooth removed can cause anxiety. At Orion Dental, we offer sedation options including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout the procedure. Local anaesthesia is used to numb the treatment area, and sedation can help manage anxiety while allowing you to remain conscious and responsive.
Anxious About Extractions? Sedation Can Help
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available at both our Scarborough and Milton locations. It takes effect within minutes, wears off quickly after the mask is removed, and lets most patients drive themselves home. If you have significant dental anxiety, mention it when you book — we will make sure sedation is arranged for your appointment. Learn more about sedation dentistry.
Replacing an Extracted Tooth
After an extraction (excluding wisdom teeth), it is important to consider how the missing tooth will be replaced. Leaving a gap can lead to shifting of adjacent teeth, bone loss in the jaw, and difficulty chewing. Options for tooth replacement include:
- Dental implants — a fixed, long-lasting option anchored in the jawbone
- Dental bridges — a fixed restoration anchored to adjacent teeth
- Partial dentures — a removable appliance that replaces one or more teeth
Your dentist will discuss the most suitable options for your situation during your consultation or follow-up appointment.
Insurance Coverage for Extractions
Many dental insurance plans in Ontario cover tooth extractions under basic or major restorative benefits, though the level of coverage differs from plan to plan, and coverage for sedation varies as well. We recommend calling your insurer before your appointment to confirm your own benefits. Our front desk team is happy to assist with predeterminations — just ask when you call to book.
Tooth Extractions at Orion Dental
At Orion Dental, we perform tooth extractions with care and attention to your comfort. We explain each step, provide thorough aftercare instructions, and follow up to make sure you are healing well.
To schedule an appointment, book online or call our Scarborough office at 416-291-0306 or our Milton office at 905-636-9770.