You can book an appointment by contacting our office or by using our online request form.
Tooth Extractions in Colonia, Woodbridge Township, NJ
If you have a damaged or infected tooth, our general dentists will attempt to preserve the tooth. There are many ways for dentists to save teeth. Unfortunately, this cannot always be done. In some cases, an extraction is needed.
You can be assured that extractions are a common practice, and dentists perform regular extractions for a wide variety of reasons. People of all ages need extractions sometimes.
Our dentists at Colonia Dental Associates offer Tooth Extractions in Colonia, Woodbridge Township, NJ.
Why Might You Need a Tooth Extraction?
If an extraction is needed, it may be for one of the following reasons.
You may get an extraction if you have your wisdom teeth, as they can sometimes cause dental issues. Extractions are also common prior to someone getting braces.
Dental abscesses often warrant extractions. If the tooth root and tissue are infected, a root canal is usually recommended. If a root canal can’t fix the problem, an extraction may be needed instead.
Tooth decay and damaged teeth may lead to an extraction.
How Does a Dentist Perform a Tooth Extraction?
If you are having a tooth extracted, you likely want to know what to expect. Be sure to ask our dentists if you have any questions or concerns.
First, you will receive a local anesthetic to help keep you comfortable.
Next, our dentist will remove the gum and tissue. The tooth can be removed in small pieces or all at once. Teeth are sometimes impacted, which makes them difficult to remove.
Our dentists at Colonia Dental Associates will give you recovery instructions to follow. This is a common procedure, and recovery is not too bad.
Contact our team as soon as possible if you have additional concerns following the procedure.
If you need more information about extractions near you, or to determine the right course of treatment, contact our dentist in Colonia, NJ.
We serve residents of Colonia, NJ, as well as the surrounding areas of Woodbridge township including Avenel, Carteret, Clark, Edison, Fords, Iselin, Linden, Piscataway, Port Reading, Metuchen, Rahway, Sewaren, and South Plainfield.
FAQs
When is a tooth extraction necessary?
A tooth extraction may be required for severe decay, infection, overcrowding, gum disease, or impacted wisdom teeth that cause pain or misalignment.
What should I anticipate on a tooth extraction procedure?
Our dentist will numb the area, carefully remove the tooth, and provide aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimal discomfort.
Is a tooth extraction painful?
No, the procedure is done under local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Some post-extraction soreness is normal, but pain can be managed with medications.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Recovery typically takes a few days to a week. Following aftercare instructions, including rest, avoiding hard foods, and proper oral hygiene, can speed up healing.
What can I eat after a tooth extraction?
Soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are recommended for the first few days. Stay away from hot, crunchy, or spicy foods that can irritate the extraction site.
How do I prevent dry sockets after an extraction?
Avoid smoking, using straws, or spitting forcefully, as these can displace the blood clot, leading to a painful dry socket.
Will I need to replace a missing tooth after an extraction?
Depending on the tooth’s location, options like dental implants, bridges, or dentures can reinstate your smile and maintain proper bite alignment.
How soon can I resume normal activities after a tooth extraction?
Light activities can be resumed within 24 hours, but heavy exercise should be avoided for at least 48 hours to prevent bleeding and discomfort.
Do you offer emergency tooth extractions?
Yes, at Colonia Dental, we provide emergency extractions for severe pain, infections, or trauma-related dental issues.
Why can't I have dairy after tooth extraction?
Avoiding dairy products for 24-48 hours after tooth extraction is recommended because dairy can introduce bacteria to the healing extraction site, potentially causing infection. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt can also dislodge the blood clot protecting the extraction site, leading to dry socket. Additionally, the temperature of dairy products (if cold) or the need to rinse can disturb healing. After the initial healing period, you can gradually reintroduce dairy products.
What are signs my tooth extraction site is infected?
Infection signs after tooth extraction include severe, increasing pain after the third day, pus discharge (white or yellow fluid), foul taste or odor from the extraction site, excessive swelling that worsens rather than improves, fever above 101°F, and swollen lymph nodes. The extraction site should feel better each day, not worse. If you notice persistent bad breath, greenish discharge, or red streaks near the extraction site, contact our Colonia office immediately for antibiotic treatment.
Can I save my tooth from extraction?
In many cases, teeth can be saved through root canal treatment, crowns, or other restorative procedures. Factors determining if a tooth is saveable include the extent of decay, crack location, bone support, and your overall oral health. Our Colonia dentists always explore tooth-saving options before recommending extraction. However, severely damaged teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, or teeth causing overcrowding may require extraction for your overall oral health.
What should I do if I get pus from my extraction site?
Pus from an extraction site indicates infection and requires immediate dental attention. Don't squeeze or press on the area, as this can spread infection. Gently rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz water) and contact our emergency line immediately. Infections can spread quickly and become serious. You'll likely need antibiotic treatment and possibly additional cleaning of the extraction site. Don't delay treatment - call (732) 381-8886 immediately.
Is it normal to have a hole where my tooth was removed?
Yes, a socket or "hole" where your tooth was removed is completely normal and expected. The socket will gradually fill in with new gum tissue and bone over several months. Initially, the hole may look deep and concerning, but it will become smaller each day. Don't probe the area with your tongue or fingers, as this can delay healing or introduce bacteria. The socket should not be painful after the first few days - contact us if pain persists or worsens.
How long will my face be swollen after tooth extraction?
Facial swelling typically peaks 48-72 hours after extraction and gradually decreases over 5-7 days. Simple extractions may have minimal swelling, while surgical extractions (like impacted wisdom teeth) can cause significant swelling lasting up to a week. Apply ice packs for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 48 hours to minimize swelling. After 48 hours, switch to warm compresses to promote healing. Call if swelling continues to increase after 3 days.
