Safe & Comfortable Tooth Extractions
At The Foleck Center in Virginia Beach, tooth extractions are more than just a procedure—they’re a part of your overall oral health journey. As a key service within our general dentistry
offerings, we focus on making each extraction as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Whether it’s a simple removal or surgical extraction, our experienced team uses modern, state-of-the-art techniques to protect your smile and support your long-term dental health.
Ready to safeguard your smile? Schedule your tooth extraction consultation at The Foleck Center today and experience gentle, expert care.
Types of Tooth Removal Procedures
There are two primary types of tooth extraction procedures. When you visit The Foleck Center for your consultation, your dentist will examine the health and state of your gums and teeth, including the one causing you concern, to determine which type of procedure to move forward with. During this time, patient’s are encouraged and welcomed to ask questions, express concerns, or get clarification on what to expect.
Simple Extraction
A simpler procedure for when the target tooth is visible above the gumline. The tooth is gently rocked back and forth until it is carefully extracted from the socket. This process typically takes less than 1 hour.
To keep patients comfortable, local anesthesia is used to numb the area.
Simple extractions are less invasive and offer a faster recovery period and less pain.
Surgical Extraction
A more complex procedure for when the tooth is broken, has curved roots, or is impacted (is trapped below the gumline). An experienced oral surgeon makes an incision in the gum to access and remove the tooth. In some cases, the tooth is fragmented to help with the removal process. Surgical procedures typically take between 1-2 hours.
To ensure patients are comfortable and still during this process, surgical extractions are often done under general anesthesia.
Recovery times are typically longer for surgical extractions and patients are prone to more complications.
Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction in Virginia Beach
While poor oral hygiene and decay can lead to the need for tooth removal, patients who take excellent care of their teeth and gums may also need one or more teeth removed. The need for tooth extraction can also happen at any age.
- Severe tooth decay: Extensive decay that cannot be restored with a filling or crown, extraction may be the best solution to prevent further damage and infection.
- Periodontal disease: Advanced gum disease can result in the loosening of teeth as bone anchoring the tooth is lost, ultimately leading to extraction
- Impacted teeth: Teeth that fail to erupt properly can become impacted, causing pain, infection, and other dental issues, necessitating extraction. Most commonly associated with wisdom teeth.
- Orthodontic treatment: Teeth may need to be extracted to create space during orthodontic treatment.
- Dental trauma: Severe fractures or injuries of the tooth that render the tooth non-restorable may require extraction.
- Stubborn baby teeth: Some baby teeth don’t fall out when they should and they may need to be removed.
What to Expect After Your Tooth Extraction
At The Foleck Center, we make tooth extractions as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Proper care after your procedure is key to quick healing and avoiding complications like dry socket.
Immediatly After Your Extraction
Natural healing: A blood clot forms in the empty socket to protect the area and promote recovery. Avoid disturbing it to prevent pain or delayed healing.
Comfort measures: Use an ice pack to reduce swelling, eat soft foods like yogurt or mashed potatoes, and avoid heavy activity for the first few days. Pain relief may include prescription or over-the-counter options.
Caring for Your Extraction Site
Good oral hygiene is important, but you should handle the area gently. Tips for safe care include:
- Rinse gently with warm salt water after the first 24 hours.
- Avoid touching or disturbing the site with your tongue or toothbrush.
- Call our Virginia Beach office if you notice unusual bleeding, exposed bone, or increased discomfort.
Possible Complications
While tooth extractions at The Foleck Center are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential complications so you can take steps to prevent them. Understanding the differences between simple and surgical extractions helps you prepare and recover safely. Prior to your procedure, we encourage you to share any concerns you may have. We are dedicated to empowering our patients and making sure they are well informed about the treatments they receive.
Common Complications for Simple Extractions:
- Dry socket: Occurs if the blood clot protecting the socket is dislodged, leading to pain and delayed healing.
- Bleeding: Mild bleeding is normal, but prolonged or heavy bleeding should be reported immediately.
- Swelling and bruising: Usually temporary and manageable with ice packs and soft foods.
- Infection: Rare, but can occur if bacteria enter the extraction site; warm salt water rinses help reduce risk.
Potential Complications for Surgical Extractions:
- Nerve irritation or numbness: Temporary tingling or numbness in the lips, tongue, or chin can happen if nerves are affected during surgery.
- Jaw stiffness or soreness: More common after complex extractions; gentle exercises and prescribed medications can help.
- Sinus issues: Upper molar extractions may occasionally create a small connection with the sinus; your dentist will provide guidance if this occurs.
- Infection or delayed healing: Surgical sites require careful hygiene and follow-up to ensure proper recovery.
Supporting Long-Term Oral Health
Removing a problematic tooth can protect your remaining teeth and jawbone. Benefits include:
- Preventing gum disease or tooth root infections.
- Protecting nearby teeth from damage.
- Maintaining proper bite alignment, especially if a replacement option is recommended for molars.
Replacing Lost Teeth
For cases involving decay, dental trauma, or periodontal disease, there are a number of tooth replacement options available. The Foleck Center in Virginia Beach is a one-stop-shop for all of your dental needs, so, we can perform both the extraction and provide restorative treatments. No referrals needed and you’ll get to continue working with a compassionate team you can trust.
At your consultation for a tooth removal, your dentist will go over options like dental implants or bridges.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions in Virginia Beach
The cost of a tooth extraction at The Foleck Center varies depending on the complexity of the procedure. Simple extractions are typically more affordable, while surgical extractions, which may involve impacted or difficult-to-remove teeth, can be higher. Insurance often covers at least part of the procedure, and our team works with patients to maximize benefits and provide transparent pricing. We also offer flexible payment options to make quality dental care accessible for every smile.
Want to learn your specific cost? Contact our Virginia Beach office today for a personalized estimate and consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a tooth extraction take?
The amount of time it takes for a tooth removal procedure depends on the complexity and number of teeth needing to be removed.
- Simple extractions can take less than hour
- Surgical extractions can take between 1-2 hours
Is tooth extraction painful?
Our team of dentists and registered dental hygienists take your comfort at every stage seriously. During your procedure, local or general anesthesia is used so you don’t feel any pain. The type of anesthesia given depends on the complexity of the procedure.
After extraction and during recovery, discomfort or swelling may occur. Over-the-counter pain medication can help manage any discomfort and lessen inflammation.
Can I smoke or drink through a straw after a tooth extraction?
It is recommended to avoid smoking and drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours after an extraction. These activities can lead to a dry socket.
Do children or teens require tooth extractions?
Tooth extraction might be needed by patients of all ages.
Common reasons children or teens may undergo tooth removal include impacted wisdom teeth or stubborn baby teeth. Our team of family dentists serves smiles of any age with compassion, care, and trusted dental procedures when needed.
How long does the recovery process take after a tooth extraction?
- Simple extractions generally heal within a few days
- Surgical extractions may require a longer recovery period of up to a week or more.
Expert Extractions Made Easy in Virginia Beach, VA
At The Foleck Center, tooth extractions are just one part of our commitment to your overall dental health. Our expert team ensures every procedure is as comfortable as possible, helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile for years to come. From simple removals to more complex surgical extractions, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Take the Next Step for Your Smile!
Schedule your tooth extraction consultation at The Foleck Center in Virginia Beach today and experience expert care in a comfortable, patient-focused environment.
