The Tooth Extraction Procedure — Step-by-Step

Sweet Water Dentistry | Fairhope, Alabama

Removing the Fear from Tooth Removal

If you’ve never had a tooth pulled, you might feel a little anxious about what to expect. At Sweet Water Dentistry in Fairhope, Alabama, we believe that education takes the fear out of dental care. When you know exactly what’s going to happen during your extraction — from the numbing to the healing — you’re far more likely to feel calm and confident.

Let’s walk through the entire tooth extraction process so you’ll know what to expect when it’s time for your procedure.

Step 1: We Welcome You and Prep for Comfort

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by our friendly front desk team and shown to one of our comfortable treatment rooms. Dr. Greer will check in with you personally, review the plan, and answer any last-minute questions.

You’ll also be:

• Seated comfortably with a warm blanket or neck pillow if desired
• Given local anesthesia to numb the area completely
• Offered nitrous oxide or other sedation options if previously discussed

We’ll make sure you feel safe and ready before we begin.

Step 2: Numbing the Area

The first step in the clinical process is making sure you’re completely numb. We apply a topical anesthetic first, followed by a gentle injection of local anesthesia near the tooth and surrounding tissues.

You won’t feel pain — just some pressure, vibration, or slight tugging once the extraction begins.

Step 3: Loosening the Tooth

Next, Dr. Greer uses a tool called a dental elevator to gently loosen the tooth from the surrounding ligaments and bone. This step is slow, gentle, and designed to minimize trauma to the surrounding tissue.

For Simple Extractions:

• This may be all that’s needed to remove the tooth in one piece using forceps.

For Surgical Extractions:

• An incision may be made in the gum.
• The tooth may be sectioned (cut into smaller parts) if it’s impacted or hard to access.
• Sometimes small amounts of bone are removed to help access the root.

Step 4: Removing the Tooth

Once the tooth is fully loosened, we use forceps to gently remove it from the socket. You may feel pressure or movement, but you won’t feel pain. The entire process is usually very quick — often just a few minutes.

For surgical extractions, dissolvable stitches may be placed to close the gum tissue and aid in healing.

Step 5: Stopping the Bleeding

After the tooth is removed, we place gauze over the extraction site to help stop bleeding and form a blood clot — a critical part of the healing process.

We’ll ask you to bite down gently on the gauze and may replace it once or twice before you leave. You’ll also get detailed instructions on how to manage any bleeding at home.

Step 6: Post-Op Instructions and Support

We’ll go over everything you need to know for a smooth recovery, including:

• How to avoid dislodging the clot
• What to eat (and avoid)
• Pain management options
• How to brush around the area

You’ll receive a printed instruction sheet and a phone number in case you have questions after you leave. Most patients feel well enough to return to work or school within 24–48 hours.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

The actual extraction procedure usually takes:

• 10–15 minutes for a simple extraction
• 30–45 minutes for a surgical extraction

Your visit may take longer if:

• Multiple teeth are removed
• Sedation is used
• Additional imaging or preparation is required

What Will I Feel During the Procedure?

You’ll feel:

• Numbing or tingling from the anesthesia
• Pressure or movement as the tooth is loosened
• A little gauze in your mouth afterward

You won’t feel pain, and many patients are surprised at how quick and easy the procedure is.

What Happens If I’m Nervous?

We understand. Tooth extractions can feel overwhelming — especially if you’ve had negative dental experiences in the past. That’s why Sweet Water Dentistry offers:

• A gentle, judgment-free environment
• Clear explanations to help you feel in control
• Sedation options for mild to moderate anxiety
• A team that treats you like family

Our goal is not just to remove a tooth — it’s to help you walk out feeling relieved, cared for, and respected.

What’s Next After the Tooth Is Out?

We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment if necessary, and we may also discuss:

• Options for replacing the missing tooth (if needed)
• How long to wait before considering an implant, bridge, or denture
• Your next cleaning or check-up

📞 Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’ve been told you need an extraction — or you’re in pain and unsure — let’s talk. We’ll explain everything, treat you gently, and guide you through the process one step at a time.

Your peace of mind is just one appointment away.

To schedule a consultation and learn more about your dental implant options, contact Sweet Water Dentistry today!

Visit us for expert care:

Sweet Water Dentistry
📍 5915 Sweetwater Cir, Fairhope, AL 36532
🌐 sweetwatersmile.com
📞 Call or Text: (251) 210-2773

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