Gentle tooth removal and bone grafting to protect your jaw, relieve pain, and prepare for what comes next.
Overview
At Devon Dental Centre, we approach extractions the same way we approach everything else: with care, precision, and a focus on keeping you comfortable from start to finish. Removing a tooth is sometimes the right decision for your long-term oral health, and when that time comes, Dr. Raj ensures the process is as smooth and pain-free as possible.
Whether you are dealing with a severely decayed tooth, a painful infection, a broken tooth beyond repair, or wisdom teeth that are impacted and causing problems, we have the tools and experience to handle it well. We also offer bone grafting at the time of extraction for patients who want to preserve their jawbone and keep future options open, including dental implants.
Every extraction begins with a thorough examination and X-rays. Dr. Raj reviews your situation, explains exactly what to expect, and answers your questions before anything happens. Aftercare instructions are clear and complete, so your recovery is as straightforward as the procedure itself.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are your third molars, the last teeth to develop. Most people have four of them, one in each corner of the mouth, and they typically begin to emerge in the late teens or early twenties. The problem is that by this stage, there is usually not enough room in the jaw to accommodate them.
When a wisdom tooth cannot fully emerge, it is described as impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can push against the neighbouring tooth, become partially trapped under the gumline, or grow in at an angle. Any of these situations can cause:
Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. Some erupt fully and cause no issues. Dr. Raj will review your X-rays and give you an honest assessment of whether removal is necessary or whether monitoring is the right call.
Bone Grafting
When a tooth is removed, the surrounding bone begins to resorb within weeks. A socket graft placed at the time of extraction preserves the bone volume so the ridge stays full and stable.
Dental implants need adequate bone density to integrate successfully. Grafting at extraction ensures there is enough bone volume to support an implant when you are ready, avoiding a more complex procedure later.
Bone loss after extractions gradually changes the shape of the jaw and face, contributing to a sunken or aged appearance. Preserving the bone keeps your facial profile intact over time.
Even if you are not sure yet whether you want an implant, grafting at the time of extraction is far simpler than rebuilding lost bone later. It preserves your choices without committing you to anything.
The Process
Consultation and X-Rays
Dr. Raj reviews your dental X-rays, assesses the tooth and surrounding bone, and explains the extraction plan. If bone grafting is recommended, we discuss it at this stage so you can make an informed decision before your appointment.
Anesthesia and Comfort
The area is thoroughly numbed with local anesthetic before anything begins. We work at your pace and check in throughout. Sedation options are available for patients who experience dental anxiety.
Extraction
The tooth is carefully loosened and removed. For impacted wisdom teeth, a small incision in the gum may be needed to access the tooth fully. The socket is cleaned and inspected once the tooth is out.
Bone Graft Placement (if applicable)
If you are having a socket graft, bone material is placed into the extraction site immediately and covered with a collagen membrane. This sets the stage for healing and preserves the ridge for future restoration.
Recovery and Aftercare
We provide written aftercare instructions before you leave. Most patients recover comfortably within a few days. Dr. Raj is available if you have questions during healing, and a follow-up appointment confirms everything is healing as expected.
FAQ
Do wisdom teeth always need to be removed?
No. Wisdom teeth that have erupted fully, are properly aligned, and can be cleaned effectively do not necessarily need to come out. Removal is recommended when they are impacted, causing pain, crowding neighbouring teeth, or creating a persistent infection risk.
Is a tooth extraction painful?
The area is completely numbed before the procedure, so you should feel pressure and movement but not pain. Post-extraction soreness is normal and typically resolves within a few days with over-the-counter pain relief and proper aftercare.
How long is the recovery after an extraction?
Most simple extractions heal within a week. Wisdom tooth removal or extractions with bone grafting may take two to three weeks for the gum to close over fully, though discomfort usually subsides within the first few days.
Do I need a bone graft after every extraction?
Not every extraction requires grafting. It is most beneficial when the extracted tooth may eventually be replaced with an implant, or when the extraction site has significant bone loss already. Dr. Raj will advise you based on your specific situation.
Does insurance cover extractions and bone grafts in Devon?
Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of tooth extraction costs. Coverage for bone grafting varies by plan and whether it is classified as restorative or surgical. We recommend confirming your specific benefits with your insurer before your appointment.
What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged before healing is complete, exposing the underlying bone. You can reduce the risk by avoiding straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing for the first 24 to 48 hours. We provide full aftercare instructions at your appointment.
How soon can I eat normally after an extraction?
Soft foods are recommended for the first 24 to 48 hours. Most patients return to a normal diet within a week, though you should continue to avoid chewing on the extraction side until it is fully healed.
Gentle, precise care from consultation through recovery.
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