Tooth Extractions
Hillsboro, OR

When a tooth has been damaged beyond our ability to fix it, we will often need to perform an extraction. An extraction involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Extractions are also necessary to remove wisdom teeth that are currently, or will become impacted.

We can perform most simple extractions right here in our office in Hillsboro. If an extraction looks like it will require general anesthesia, or may need surgical attention we will be happy to refer you to one of our trusted oral surgeons.

Why are teeth extracted?

There are a huge variety of reasons why a tooth may end up needing to be extracted. The most frequent causes of tooth extraction are wisdom teeth that are impacted, tooth decay, and trauma.

When a tooth receives trauma in the form of chipping sometimes they can be repaired but, depending on the condition of the tooth that remains, sometimes they must be extracted.

Most extractions fall under the classification of “simple”. For a procedure to be classified as simple it must not require surgery.

How is an extraction performed?

The extraction procedure is fairly easy. We begin the process by taking X-rays of the site to ensure that we know exactly what to expect. We will request that you provide a list of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs or vitamins you may be taking.

When we are ready to perform the actual extraction we will administer a numbing agent. We will loosen the tooth using a tool called an elevator and remove it using forceps. The process is generally painless, and quick. Once the tooth is extracted we will suture the gums closed.

Post-Operative Instructions

Generally, we will prescribe you a painkiller or recommend you take an NSAID like ibuprofen or aspirin. We will send you home with detailed instructions on at-home post-operative care. A little bleeding is to be expected for a day or so following a tooth extraction.

We recommend rinsing with warm salt water for roughly a minute a few times a day while the site heals. This will help to keep debris from getting stuck in the site. Make sure not to eat anything too hard or potentially sharp (chips, popcorn) as that could disturb the stitches.

If you experience significant pain for more than two to three days, please call our office so that we can see you to ensure everything is alright. Smoking can easily produce an adverse effect on the healing process and should be avoided at all costs while the stitches remain in your mouth.

If you think you may need to have a tooth extracted, or if you have further questions about extractions or wisdom teeth, please give us a call at (971) 708-1608 and we will be happy to answer any questions you have! We care about your dental health and will do everything in our power to prevent you from needing a tooth extraction.