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When a tooth cannot be saved, a careful extraction may be the best step. Wilsonville patients can learn about preparation and healing at our Port Dover office.
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Caring for Wilsonville patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WilsonvilleWhen removal is the right choice
Dentists generally try to keep natural teeth, but sometimes removal is the healthiest choice. A tooth may be too damaged by decay or fracture to repair, loosened by advanced gum disease, crowded or causing repeated infection. Understanding why an extraction is recommended, and what alternatives exist, helps you feel confident about the decision.
Wilsonville patients facing an extraction can have it planned at our Port Dover office. Because you will be travelling home afterward, ask about arranging a driver if needed, how long the appointment may take and what aftercare supplies to have ready before you leave the house.

Why removal
Severe decay that reaches below the gum, a crack that splits the root, advanced bone loss from gum disease and teeth blocking others from coming in are common reasons for extraction. Some teeth are removed as part of orthodontic planning. The dentist will show you X-rays and explain why the tooth is unlikely to be saved predictably.
Ask whether root canal treatment, a crown or gum therapy could keep the tooth, and what the likely outcome would be. In some cases these are reasonable options; in others, the tooth has a poor long-term outlook. Weighing comfort, time, prognosis and future replacement helps you make an informed choice.
Preparation
Tell the dentist about all medications, especially blood thinners, bone-strengthening drugs and supplements, as well as conditions like diabetes or heart problems. You may be given specific instructions about medications before the procedure. Do not stop a prescribed medication without guidance from the prescriber.
Eat a light meal beforehand unless told otherwise. Arrange for someone to drive you if sedation is planned. Stock up on soft foods, gauze and any recommended pain relief. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day, avoiding strenuous activity that could increase bleeding.
The procedure
The area is numbed so you feel pressure rather than sharp pain. The dentist gently widens the socket and loosens the tooth before removing it. Let the dentist know if you feel discomfort at any point so more anaesthetic can be given. Comfort options can be discussed if you feel anxious.
Some teeth are removed in one piece. Others, such as broken teeth or teeth with curved roots, may need a surgical approach involving a small incision or sectioning the tooth. Stitches may be placed. The dentist will explain what is planned and what to expect beforehand.
Healing
Bite on gauze as directed to control bleeding. Avoid spitting, using straws, smoking and vigorous rinsing for the first day, since these can dislodge the clot. Eat soft foods and chew on the other side. Swelling can be eased with a cold compress, and pain relief should be used as instructed.
Call the office if bleeding does not slow, pain increases after a few days, swelling spreads or you develop a fever. These may signal complications such as dry socket or infection. Once healed, discuss whether the space should be filled with an implant, bridge or partial denture.
Planning your appointment
Contact our Port Dover office to arrange the procedure and ask about preparation instructions. If you expect to need a driver, confirm the appointment time before making arrangements for the trip home.
Bring a full list of medications and supplements, and let the team know about any history of bleeding problems or slow healing.
Before you book
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Local anaesthetic keeps the area numb during the procedure. You may feel pressure. Afterward, soreness is common for a few days and is usually managed with recommended pain relief.
Initial healing of the gum often takes a week or two, while the bone continues to remodel for months. Your dentist will give specific aftercare instructions based on the extraction.
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot is lost or does not form properly, exposing bone. It can cause increasing pain a few days after extraction. Contact the office if this happens.
It depends on the tooth’s location and your goals. Gaps can lead to shifting teeth and changes in bite. Your dentist can discuss implants, bridges or partial dentures.
Many people can return to light activities the next day after a simple extraction. Surgical extractions may require more rest. Ask the dentist what to expect for your procedure.
Impacted or troublesome wisdom teeth may need removal. Wilsonville patients can learn about assessment, recovery and planning the ride home from our Port Dover office.
A bridge fills a gap by anchoring a replacement tooth to its neighbours. Wilsonville patients can compare bridges, implants and partials at our Port Dover office.
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