ORAL SURGERY · NAPLES, FL
Tooth Extractions
When a tooth cannot be saved, gentle removal protects the rest of your mouth. We make extractions as comfortable as possible and guide you through every step of recovery.
WHEN EXTRACTION IS NEEDED
Protecting Your Oral Health Through Removal
Dr. O'Sullivan always explores every option to save a natural tooth before recommending extraction. However, when a tooth is beyond repair or poses a risk to surrounding teeth and gums, removal is the best path forward for your long-term oral health.
Common reasons for extraction include severe decay, advanced gum disease, overcrowding, impacted wisdom teeth, or irreparable damage from trauma. After extraction, we discuss replacement options so your smile remains intact.
- Severe tooth decay that cannot be restored
- Advanced periodontal (gum) disease
- Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth
- Fractured teeth below the gum line
- Orthodontic preparation (overcrowding)
- Infection risk in immunocompromised patients
RECOVERY & AFTERCARE
Healing Comfortably After Your Extraction
Most patients recover from a straightforward extraction within 1–3 days. Dr. O'Sullivan will provide detailed aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort and ensure proper healing.
Following these guidelines carefully helps prevent dry socket — the most common complication — and supports healthy gum tissue recovery.
- Bite gently on gauze for 30–45 minutes after
- Avoid straws, smoking, or spitting for 24 hours
- Apply ice packs in 20-minute intervals for swelling
- Eat soft foods for the first few days
- Take prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed
- Follow up as scheduled so we can monitor healing
Gentle Technique
Dr. O'Sullivan uses a careful, minimally traumatic technique to preserve surrounding bone and gum tissue.
Fully Numbed
Local anesthesia ensures the extraction area is completely numb. You'll feel pressure, but no sharp pain.
Replacement Planning
We discuss implants, bridges, or dentures before the extraction so you always have a plan for restoring your smile.
Same-Day Emergencies
Severe dental pain from an infected or broken tooth? We accommodate emergency extractions for patients in need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a tooth extraction painful?
The extraction itself is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure — only some pressure. After the anesthesia wears off, mild soreness is expected and typically manageable with over-the-counter medication for 1–3 days.
How long is recovery after an extraction?
Most patients feel back to normal within 2–3 days after a simple extraction. Surgical extractions (such as impacted wisdom teeth) may require up to a week for full recovery. We'll provide specific guidance based on your procedure.
What is a dry socket and how do I prevent it?
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged before healing. Avoid straws, smoking, vigorous rinsing, and hard foods for at least 24–48 hours. If you experience a sudden increase in pain after the first couple of days, call us immediately.
Do I need to replace the extracted tooth?
In most cases, yes. Leaving a gap can allow neighboring teeth to shift, affect your bite, and cause bone loss over time. Dr. O'Sullivan will discuss implants, bridges, or partial dentures as replacement options.
Experiencing Dental Pain? Call us today for same-day emergency appointments. We're here to help.
