Tooth Extractions: What to Expect Before, During, and After

Extractions are one of the most common starting points for a restorative trip — clearing the way for a crown, bridge, or simply removing a tooth that's beyond saving so healing can begin.

The procedure itself is quick: local anesthesia numbs the area completely, and most single extractions take just a few minutes. For anxious patients, mild sedation is available to make the experience more relaxed from start to finish.

Recovery is straightforward for most patients — mild soreness for a day or two, a soft-food diet initially, and simple aftercare instructions (gentle rinsing, avoiding the area while it heals). Because it's such a quick procedure, extractions pair easily with other restorative work during the same trip — many patients have an extraction early on and move into crown or veneer work once the area is comfortable.

Bottom line: extractions are a fast, comfortable first step that fits easily into your trip, clearing the way for whatever restorative work comes next.