Emergency Tooth Extractions in Edmonton, AB

In cases where a tooth is too damaged to preserve, our Edmonton dentists may recommend an emergency tooth extraction.

Why might I need a tooth extraction?

Your permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but there are certain situations in which they have to be removed. Some of the most common reasons for extraction include:

• Excessive tooth decay as a result of poor oral hygiene
• Severe dental trauma, usually as a result of an accident
• Infection of the pulp, in cases where a root canal would be ineffective
• Impacted wisdom teeth or crowded teeth

What happens during a tooth extraction procedure?

Your dentist will begin the procedure by giving you an injection of a local anesthetic to numb the area. In some cases, the dentist may use a strong general anesthetic to help you sleep through the procedure.

Once the tooth has been pulled, a blood clot will form inside the socket. Your dentist will pack a gauze pad into the socket to help stop the bleeding. Sometimes the dentist will place a few self-dissolving stitches to close the gum edges over the extraction site.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a tooth extraction?

  A tooth extraction is the removal of a damaged tooth from the dental alveolus in the alveolar bone.

  Because it is always preferable to save a damaged tooth if at all possible, we will only perform a tooth extraction if less invasive treatment options would be unsuccessful.

• Is the procedure painful? How about the aftermath?

  The procedure itself will not be painful because your dentist will give you local or general anaesthetic before getting started.

  You may experience some discomfort during the recovery process, but this will likely be mild, and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and ice.

  Your dentist will provide you with detailed pain management instructions.

• How long do I have to leave the gauze in after the procedure?

  Keep the gauze pad in the extraction site for 3 to 4 hours to ensure that clotting takes place. If the gauze becomes blood-soaked, you can change it for a clean one as needed.

• How long does recovery from an extraction take?

  Recovery time will vary depending on the type of extraction and location of the tooth. However, in general, most extractions heal in 7 to 10 days. 

• What are my options for replacing the tooth?

  If you have had a wisdom tooth extraction, it will not need to be replaced.

  In other cases, there are a variety of replacement options, including dentures, dental implants, and dental bridges.

  Your dentist will discuss your tooth replacement options with you, and help you choose the right one for your personal needs.