Tooth Extractions
We get it—nobody wants to hear they need a tooth pulled. Just the words tooth extraction in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME can stir up a little anxiety. But here’s the truth: in many cases, removing a tooth is the smartest move for your long-term oral health.
At Gentle Dental, we only recommend extractions when absolutely necessary—and when we do, we make the process as gentle, comfortable, and stress-free as possible. Let’s walk you through why a tooth might need to come out, how the process works, and what happens next.
Why Would I Need A Tooth Extraction?
While your adult teeth will ideally last a lifetime, there are many reasons why a tooth extraction, or having a tooth pulled, may be necessary. At Gentle Dental, our number one priority is the health and comfort of your mouth. For this reason, if a tooth extraction is necessary, we’re the dentist for the job! We’ll be sure to give you an in-depth explanation of the procedure and answer any questions you may have about the process!
There are plenty of reasons why a tooth might need to be removed. Some are planned, and some are unexpected. Common causes include:
- Severe tooth decay that can’t be restored with a filling or crown
- Advanced gum disease that has loosened the tooth’s support
- Impacted wisdom teeth cause pain, infection, or crowding
- Broken or fractured teeth beyond repair
- Crowding before orthodontic treatment
- Infected teeth that don’t respond to root canal therapy
Sometimes, pulling one tooth helps protect the others. It's not about giving up—it’s about making room for a healthier mouth.
Simple Extraction Vs. Surgical Extraction
There are two main types of tooth extractions:
Simple Extraction
Simple tooth extraction is used when the tooth is visible and easily accessible to the dentist. For this process, a local anesthetic will be administered and the tooth will be pulled. For our patients that are especially nervous about this procedure, sedations or anti-anxiety medications are sometimes used. We numb the area, gently loosen the tooth with special instruments, and remove it in one piece. It’s quick, clean, and typically requires minimal downtime.Surgical Extraction
If the tooth is impacted, broken at the gum line, or hasn’t erupted fully (hello, wisdom teeth), we may need to make a small incision to remove it. Surgical extractions may be necessary when a tooth is highly damaged and a more complicated procedure is needed to get the tooth out. For these extractions, the anesthetics will be determined on a case-by-case basis depending on the extent of the surgery. Don’t worry—we’ll walk you through the process and keep you comfortable the entire time.
What Happens During A Tooth Extraction?
Here’s what you can expect at your appointment:
- Numbing the area – You’ll feel pressure, but no pain.
- Removing the tooth – Using gentle, controlled movements, we’ll carefully extract the tooth.
- Post-extraction care – We’ll give you gauze to control bleeding and send you home with detailed aftercare instructions.
If needed, we may place a few stitches (usually dissolvable), especially with surgical extractions.
Will It Hurt?
That’s the #1 question we get. Thanks to modern numbing techniques, you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, you might experience some soreness or swelling, but nothing that can’t be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, ice packs, and a little rest.
We’ll give you clear post-op instructions so you heal quickly and comfortably.
What About Replacing The Tooth?
Not all extractions require replacements (like wisdom teeth), but if you're removing a tooth that plays a role in chewing or appearance, we’ll talk about your options.
To prevent shifting, bone loss, or bite issues, we may recommend:
- Dental implants
- Bridges
- Partial dentures
We’ll guide you through the best long-term solution for your smile and your budget.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that grow into most adults’ mouths between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people’s wisdom teeth grow-in normally and are perfectly fine to stay in their mouth, many people’s wisdom teeth can become impacted and trapped in their jawbone or gums. When this is the case, the wisdom teeth can be extremely painful and require extraction. At Gentle Dental, our dentists have years of experience extracting teeth and can make the wisdom teeth removal process as easy and painless as possible.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare: Tips For A Smooth Recovery
To help your mouth heal:
- Bite on gauze for 30–60 minutes post-extraction
- Avoid smoking, straws, or spitting for at least 24 hours (they can dislodge the blood clot)
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup
- Sleep with your head elevated the first night
- Brush gently, avoiding the extraction site
- Call us if pain worsens, bleeding persists, or you suspect infection
Let’s Take Care Of That Tooth—Together
A tooth extraction in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME might sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. At Gentle Dental, we make your comfort the top priority. Whether you need to remove a problem tooth or plan for future treatment, we’ll guide you every step of the way—with clarity, compassion, and a gentle touch.
Think you might need a tooth pulled? Schedule a consultation with us today. Let’s figure it out together—and help you get back to a healthier, pain-free smile.
