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When a tooth cannot be saved, removal may be the safest step. Pine Grove patients can read how extractions are planned, carried out and healed afterward.
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Caring for Pine Grove patients at our Port Dover office
Browse every dental service for Pine GroveWhen a tooth cannot stay
Dentists generally try to save natural teeth, but extraction is sometimes the most sensible option. Severe decay, a fracture below the gumline, advanced gum disease, crowding before orthodontic treatment or a wisdom tooth causing problems may all lead to a recommendation for removal. Understanding the reason helps you weigh the decision with confidence.
For Pine Grove patients, extractions take place at our Port Dover office after an examination and usually an X-ray. The dentist will explain the procedure, recovery and any options for replacing the tooth before you decide.

Why remove a tooth
A tooth may be beyond repair if decay or a crack has destroyed too much structure, if infection keeps returning despite treatment, or if gum disease has left it very loose. Sometimes healthy teeth are removed to make room during orthodontic care. The dentist will base the recommendation on your examination and X-rays.
Ask whether root canal treatment, a crown or gum therapy could save the tooth, and what the outlook would be. Find out what happens to the space afterward and whether neighbouring teeth might shift. Knowing the alternatives and their likely results lets you make a decision that suits your health and priorities.
Preparing
Tell the dentist about all medications, especially blood thinners, bone-strengthening drugs and supplements. Mention heart conditions, diabetes, bleeding disorders, pregnancy and allergies. Some conditions call for extra precautions or coordination with your physician. Do not stop any prescribed medication unless your doctor or dentist specifically advises it.
Eat a light meal beforehand unless instructed otherwise, and wear comfortable clothing. If sedation is planned, you will need someone to drive you home. Stock soft foods at home and arrange to rest for the remainder of the day. Ask the office for written aftercare instructions to keep on hand.
The extraction
For a tooth that is fully visible, the area is numbed and the tooth is gently loosened and removed. You will feel pressure but should not feel sharp pain. Tell the dentist immediately if you do. Gauze is placed over the site and you will be asked to bite firmly to help a clot form.
Teeth that are broken at the gumline or impacted may need a small incision, removal of some bone or division of the tooth into pieces. Stitches may be placed. The dentist will explain beforehand if a surgical approach is likely, and in some cases may discuss referral to an oral surgeon.
Healing
Keep gauze in place as directed, rest and avoid spitting, using straws, smoking or vigorous rinsing for at least the first day. These can dislodge the clot. Eat soft, cool foods and chew on the other side. Use pain relief as advised. Gentle salt-water rinses usually begin the day after, if recommended.
Some swelling and tenderness are normal for a few days. Call the office if bleeding does not slow with firm pressure, pain gets worse after a few days, a bad taste or smell develops, or you develop a fever. Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing or swallowing or rapidly spreading swelling.
Planning your appointment
Book an assessment at our Port Dover office if a tooth is painful, broken or loose. The dentist will examine it and explain whether removal or another treatment is advised.
Bring a complete medication list. If sedation may be used, arrange a driver and confirm any fasting or preparation instructions with the office.
Before you book
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
The gum usually closes over within a couple of weeks, while the bone underneath takes longer to fill in fully. Most people feel back to normal within a few days, following the aftercare instructions they were given.
A dry socket happens when the blood clot is lost or dissolves early, exposing bone. It often causes worsening pain a few days after extraction. Call the office if this happens, since treatment can ease the discomfort considerably.
It depends on the tooth’s location and your preferences. Gaps can lead to shifting teeth or bite changes. The dentist can discuss implants, bridges or dentures, or explain when leaving the space may be reasonable.
Many people return to light activities the next day after a simple extraction. Surgical removals or sedation may need more rest. Ask the dentist what to expect so you can plan time off if needed.
The area is numbed so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain during the procedure. Soreness afterward is common and usually manageable with recommended pain relief. Tell the dentist if anything feels sharp at any point.
Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. Pine Grove patients can learn how impacted or problem wisdom teeth are assessed, removed when needed and healed.
A bridge fills a gap with a false tooth anchored to its neighbours. Pine Grove patients can compare bridges with implants and dentures and learn about upkeep.
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New patients and CDCP patients are welcome. Tell us how we can help and our Port Dover dental team will follow up with you.
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