You can book an appointment by contacting our office or by using our online request form.
Our dentists always try to preserve a natural tooth first. Fillings, crowns, and root canals can save a tooth in many cases, but when decay, infection, or damage is too extensive, an extraction becomes the safer and more predictable option. At Colonia Dental Associates, we perform extractions in a way that keeps you comfortable and sets you up for a clear next step, whether that is healing or planning a replacement tooth.
Dr. Ashlee N. Apratim, D.M.D., and Dr. Gurjinder Singh, D.M.D., are both Associate Fellows of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) and completed the Rutgers University AAID MaxiCourse, which included advanced surgical training. That background means most of our extraction patients, including more complex cases, are treated in-house by doctors they already know rather than referred out to an unfamiliar specialist.
Why You Might Need a Tooth Extraction
An extraction is usually a last resort after other treatment options have been ruled out. Common reasons we recommend one include severe tooth decay that has destroyed too much structure to support a crown, a dental abscess or infection that a root canal cannot resolve, a tooth fractured below the gumline, advanced gum disease that has loosened a tooth beyond saving, or impacted wisdom teeth causing pain or crowding.
Extractions are also sometimes recommended before orthodontic treatment when there is not enough room for teeth to align properly.
Simple vs. Surgical Extractions
Not every extraction is the same. A simple extraction is used for a tooth that is fully visible above the gumline and can be removed with standard instruments under local anesthesia. A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth is broken at the gumline, has curved or fused roots, or has not fully erupted, such as an impacted wisdom tooth, and requires a small incision or minor bone removal to access it. Your dentist will let you know before your appointment which type applies to your situation so there are no surprises.
What Happens During and After Your Extraction
Local Anesthesia
The area around the tooth is fully numbed before we begin, so you should not feel pain during the procedure itself.
Removal
The tooth is gently loosened and removed, sometimes in sections if it is impacted or has curved roots.
Recovery Instructions
You leave with written aftercare guidance covering diet, activity, and warning signs of complications, plus a plan for any tooth replacement if needed.
Most simple extractions heal within a week, while surgical extractions may take a bit longer. We always discuss tooth replacement options at the time of extraction, since bone loss begins within months of losing a tooth.
Why Colonia Patients Choose Us for Extractions
Meet Your Extraction Providers at Colonia Dental Associates
Dr. Ashlee N. Apratim, D.M.D.
Associate Fellow, AAID · Rutgers AAID MaxiCourse · Honors in Prosthodontics, UMDNJ
Dr. Apratim graduated from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey with honors in prosthodontics and completed her advanced clinical training at JFK Medical Center in Edison, giving her surgical experience that extends to complex extraction and implant cases.
Dr. Gurjinder Singh, D.M.D.
Associate Fellow, AAID · Rutgers AAID MaxiCourse · Residency, Monmouth Medical Center
Dr. Singh earned his Doctorate in Dental Medicine from UMDNJ and completed a one-year residency at Monmouth Medical Center across all dental disciplines, including oral surgery rotations that inform his approach to extractions today.
Tooth Extraction Cost and Financing in Colonia, NJ
Extraction costs vary depending on whether the procedure is simple or surgical, and whether you are also planning a replacement tooth. As a fee-for-service practice, we file insurance claims on your behalf to help maximize your out-of-network PPO benefits, and we offer flexible payment options through CareCredit and Cherry, including 24-month 0% financing for qualified patients.
Learn more about our insurance and financing options.
Schedule Your Extraction Consultation
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.
Both Dr. Apratim and Dr. Singh are Associate Fellows of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. CareCredit and Cherry financing are available, and we file insurance claims on your behalf. To schedule your appointment, contact us online or call 732-381-7171 today.
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.
