2633 W State Rd
Suite 434
Longwood, FL 32779
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2633 W State Rd
Suite 434
Longwood, FL 32779
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Tooth extraction is a carefully considered treatment — not a first resort. Our priority is always to preserve natural teeth when safe and practical, but there are times when removing a tooth protects the rest of the mouth and supports long-term health. Extractions can relieve pain, stop infections from spreading, and create a healthier foundation for future restorative work.
Before recommending an extraction, the care team evaluates the whole picture: medical history, oral exam findings, digital images, and how the tooth affects chewing, speech, and neighboring teeth. This holistic approach helps patients understand why extraction may be the most responsible option and what will happen next.
We recognize that the idea of losing a tooth can be stressful. Our clinicians focus on patient comfort, clear communication, and a step-by-step plan that minimizes risk and sets the stage for a predictable recovery. True Vine Dental Care emphasizes compassionate care that centers on each patient’s unique needs.
Primary (baby) teeth that won’t fall out on schedule
Sometimes a primary tooth remains anchored when its permanent successor is trying to erupt. If a baby tooth is fused to bone, severely decayed, or obstructing normal development, extracting it can prevent misalignment and help the adult tooth come in properly.
Permanent teeth too damaged to save
Decay that reaches deep into a tooth or causes extensive structural loss may leave nothing viable to restore. In these situations, removing the tooth prevents ongoing infection and preserves the health of adjacent teeth and tissues.
Severe fractures or cracks
When a crack extends below the gumline or a fracture compromises the root, rebuilding the tooth can be impractical or unsafe. Extraction becomes the most predictable option to avoid chronic pain or recurrent problems.
Advanced periodontal (gum) disease
Periodontal disease destroys the supporting bone and soft tissue around teeth. When support is significantly diminished and teeth are mobile or poorly supported, removal can protect nearby teeth and help control the disease process.
Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth
Third molars are often crowded, misdirected, or partly erupted in a way that traps bacteria and food. Removing problematic wisdom teeth can prevent damage to neighboring teeth and reduce the risk of infection or cyst formation.
Extractions as part of orthodontic planning
When jaw size and tooth size are mismatched, removing one or more teeth can create space to align the bite properly. This decision is coordinated with orthodontic goals to achieve a healthy, functional, and stable result.
The appointment begins with a thorough review of your medical and dental histories and any medications you’re taking. Knowing about chronic conditions, blood-thinning medications, or recent illnesses helps the dentist plan safe, individualized care and determine whether any special precautions are needed before the procedure.
Modern treatment planning typically includes digital radiographs to evaluate root form, proximity to nerves or sinuses, and bone levels. This imaging helps the clinician decide whether the tooth can be removed with forceps or requires a surgical approach, and it informs the post-operative plan.
Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and for patients who prefer extra support to relax, several sedation options can be discussed. Our focus is to make the appointment as comfortable as possible while maintaining patient safety and predictable results.
A simple extraction is performed when a tooth is fully visible and the root anatomy is favorable. After numbness is achieved, the dentist gently mobilizes the tooth and removes it with specialized instruments. The procedure is usually quick, and most patients experience just brief pressure rather than sharp pain.
Because the surrounding structures are intact, recovery from a simple extraction tends to be straightforward. The care team reviews home-care steps and schedules any necessary follow-up to confirm healing and discuss replacement options if appropriate.
Surgical extractions are needed for teeth that are broken at the gumline, impacted, or ankylosed (fused) to bone. These cases may involve making a small incision in the gum and removing a bit of bone to access the tooth. When complexity rises, referral to an oral surgeon is sometimes the safest choice.
Even with surgical extractions, patients receive effective local anesthesia and, when indicated, sedation. Your clinician will explain the approach, expected recovery timeline, and what to watch for during healing so you feel informed and confident before the procedure begins.
Healing begins immediately after an extraction, and simple steps at home help the body form a stable blood clot and prevent complications. We give clear, written aftercare instructions tailored to whether the extraction was simple or surgical, and we encourage patients to call if anything feels out of the ordinary.
Expect some swelling, mild discomfort, and light bleeding for the first 24 hours. Rest, ice to the cheek in short intervals, and avoiding strenuous activity all support a smoother recovery. It’s also important to protect the clot by avoiding actions that create suction in the mouth.
Proper medication use plays a central role in recovery. If antibiotics or prescription pain medication are provided, follow the directions carefully. Over-the-counter pain relievers are often sufficient for routine extractions, and taking a dose before numbness wears off can help keep discomfort manageable.
Apply firm gauze pressure initially
A folded gauze pad is placed over the socket to encourage clot formation. Bite gently but firmly as directed and change the gauze when instructed. Minimal oozing for the first day is typical; contact the office if bleeding remains heavy.
Protect numb tissues
Until the local anesthetic fully wears off, be careful not to accidentally bite your lip, cheek, or tongue. Numbness can persist for a few hours.
Follow medication directions
Antibiotics:
If prescribed, take the full course to help prevent or treat infection as instructed by your dentist.
Pain control:
Start pain medication before the anesthetic wears off, and use over-the-counter options as recommended unless you were given a prescription for stronger pain relief.
Avoid disturbing the clot
Do not rinse vigorously, spit forcefully, use a straw, or smoke for several days. These actions can dislodge the clot and delay healing.
Use ice for swelling
Apply an ice pack to the cheek in 10-minute intervals on the day of the procedure to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Avoid tobacco
Smoking and tobacco products interfere with clot formation and tissue healing. Avoid them for at least a week after extraction.
Choose gentle foods
Stick to soft, cool or lukewarm foods for a few days. Avoid crunchy, spicy, or very hot items until comfort and healing improve.
Keep your mouth clean
Brush carefully around the site and, after 24–48 hours, use a mild saltwater rinse to gently cleanse the area. Do not rinse aggressively during the initial healing period.
Attend follow-up visits
If stitches were placed or if your case required additional monitoring, keep the scheduled follow-up appointment so healing can be assessed and next steps can be planned.
If bleeding, severe pain, increasing swelling, or other unexpected symptoms occur, contact the office for guidance so we can address potential complications promptly.
Removing a tooth can change how the mouth functions and looks. In many cases, replacing the missing tooth is recommended to restore chewing function, prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, and maintain facial support. The appropriate option depends on the location of the tooth, bone health, and your long-term goals.
Common restorative paths include removable dentures, fixed bridges, and dental implants. Implants are often the most natural-feeling solution because they restore a root-like element that helps preserve bone. Your dentist will discuss the advantages and timing for each option so you can make an informed choice aligned with your needs.
Sometimes additional procedures, such as bone grafting or soft-tissue management, are advised to create the best foundation for an implant or bridge. These decisions are made collaboratively, with clear explanations of the process and anticipated healing timeline.
Patients choose our practice because we combine technical skill with thoughtful, patient-centered communication. Each extraction is planned to minimize discomfort and protect oral health, whether the case is routine or complex. We coordinate with specialists when needed to ensure optimal outcomes and safety.
True Vine Dental Care emphasizes predictable care pathways: thorough assessment, clear informed consent, careful technique, and practical aftercare guidance. That consistency helps patients feel secure before, during, and after an extraction.
If you have questions about whether extraction is the right choice, or about replacing a missing tooth, our team will explain the options and next steps so you can make decisions that support your long-term oral health.
In summary: tooth extraction can be a positive, health-focused decision when preservation is not possible. We aim to provide safe, compassionate care and a clear plan for recovery and restoration. Contact us for more information or to discuss your situation with a member of our team.
The most common reasons for tooth loss include advanced periodontal disease, extensive tooth decay, and facial trauma. According to statistics, gum disease is responsible for close to 70% of tooth loss in adults. Although less frequent than the preceding three reasons, it should also be noted that specific diseases, drugs, smoking, and poor nutrition contribute to the risk of tooth loss.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that in the United States, an average of 12 teeth (including the wisdom teeth) are lost by the age of 50. Also, 26% of adults between 65 and 74 years of age have lost all their teeth.
Every patient and every situation is different. However, when a tooth and the surrounding tissues are numbed with a local anesthetic, you should only expect to feel a bit of pressure, but no pain as the tooth is being loosened from the surrounding tissues and extracted. For patients who are apprehensive and for some surgical extractions, our office will discuss our options in dental sedation to provide further relaxation and reduce any sense of discomfort.
While it's normal to feel some tenderness and swelling following an extraction, the degree of these sensations can vary. It mostly depends on the complexity of the extraction and the body's response to the procedure. We'll recommend or prescribe the appropriate pain medication to help ensure your comfort and give you specific instructions for maximum effectiveness and safety.
Typically, the recovery period following a simple extraction is shorter than a surgical extraction. However, a patient's overall health, habits, and the size and location of the tooth, and other variables can influence recovery and healing. To speed up the recovery and avoid any complications, patients must follow the given at-home instructions diligently. We'll carefully review what to expect following your procedure and go over your post-op instructions.
Smoking interferes with blood clot formation, which is an essential first step in the healing process. Blot clot formation not only provides a protective layer to cover the underlying exposed bone and nerve endings, but it also supports the growth of new tissue. Cigarette smoke also contains chemical toxins that can disrupt the healing process and lead to problems such as continued inflammation, infection, or dry socket.
In a very small percentage of cases, a condition known as dry socket can develop in the aftermath of a dental extraction. This painful condition can arise when the blood clot in the extraction site doesn't form properly or gets dislodged. With dry socket, you may experience throbbing pain and symptoms such as bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. As skilled providers of care, our office will provide immediate treatment to alleviate your discomfort and promote healing.
The last teeth in your mouth to develop, wisdom teeth often do not have enough room to fully erupt or may be positioned in the wrong direction. These issues can affect your dental health as well as overall wellbeing. While some individuals never develop all their wisdom teeth, and a few have sufficient space for them, there are many people with partially or fully impacted third molars. Our office will monitor the development, position, and health of your wisdom teeth and will advise you if and when extractions are indicated.
After a tooth is removed, bone-grafting material is sometimes placed in the socket to promote healing and encourage new bone development. This procedure is often performed to support the eventual and successful placement of a dental implant.
At the office of True Vine Dental Care, we strive to make dental care affordable and accessible. Depending on the type or complexity of the extraction and other variables, the cost of the procedure can vary. Based on our diagnostic findings, our office will inform you of the healthiest choices in care, explain the fees, discuss insurance coverage, and explain your payment options.
Many dental plans offer some level of coverage for tooth extractions. We'll advise you if your plan covers the full cost of the procedure and if there is any out-of-pocket expense. Our business office will work with you to maximize your insurance benefits as much as possible while helping you minimize any out-of-pocket expenses.
