Dental Extractions
Whether you need a single tooth removed or multiple extractions, Dr. Krajekian provides safe, gentle tooth removal in a comfortable environment with advanced anesthesia and pain management options.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Tooth extraction may be recommended when a tooth cannot be saved through restorative means:
- •Severe decay that has destroyed the majority of the tooth structure
- •Advanced periodontal (gum) disease causing significant bone loss
- •Cracked, fractured, or split roots that cannot be repaired
- •Failed root canal treatment with persistent infection
- •Teeth preventing proper orthodontic alignment
- •Teeth associated with cysts or pathology
- •Supernumerary (extra) teeth interfering with normal dentition
- •Pre-prosthetic extractions before dentures or implants
Simple vs. Surgical Extractions
Simple Extraction
A tooth that is visible in the mouth and can be loosened and removed with standard instruments. Typically straightforward with local anesthesia.
Surgical Extraction
Required when a tooth is broken at the gum line, has curved or divergent roots, is anchored in dense bone, or has roots near critical structures like the inferior alveolar nerve or maxillary sinus. May require bone removal and sectioning of the tooth.
Dr. Krajekian evaluates every case with 3D imaging when indicated to identify potential complications before surgery, ensuring the safest approach.
Anesthesia & Comfort Options
We offer a full range of anesthesia to match your needs and comfort level:
- •Local anesthesia with precision nerve blocks
- •Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild anxiety
- •IV sedation for moderate anxiety or complex cases
- •General anesthesia for extensive procedures or severe dental anxiety
- •EXPAREL (liposomal bupivacaine) for 48-72 hours of extended numbness and pain-free recovery
Exparel: Extended Pain Relief
EXPAREL is an FDA-approved long-acting local anesthetic that Dr. Krajekian administers at the surgical site. Unlike traditional numbing agents that wear off in a few hours, Exparel provides up to 72 hours of continuous pain relief, meaning many patients need little to no opioid pain medication after their procedure.
Bone Preservation Techniques
When planning for future implants or prosthetics, Dr. Krajekian may recommend bone preservation at the time of extraction:
- •Socket preservation with bone graft material
- •Collagen membrane placement
- •PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) to accelerate healing
- •Ridge preservation to maintain jaw contour
These techniques help maintain bone volume and simplify future implant placement.
Same-Day Tooth Replacement Options
Depending on your treatment plan, Dr. Krajekian may offer:
- •Immediate implant placement at the time of extraction
- •Immediate provisional tooth (temporary crown on the same day)
- •Temporary flipper or bridge to maintain aesthetics during healing
- •Coordination with your restorative dentist for seamless transition
Full-Mouth Extractions
For patients requiring removal of all remaining teeth:
- •All extractions completed in a single visit under IV sedation or general anesthesia
- •Immediate denture placed the same day. You leave with teeth
- •Bone preservation performed as needed
- •Treatment planning coordinated for future implant-supported options (overdentures or All-on-4)
What to Expect: Recovery
Day of Surgery
- •Bite on gauze for 30-60 minutes to control bleeding
- •Apply ice packs 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first 24-48 hours
- •Rest and keep head elevated
- •Soft, cool foods only (yogurt, smoothies, applesauce)
- •Take prescribed medications as directed
Days 1-3
- •Some swelling is normal and peaks around 48 hours
- •Continue soft diet
- •Gentle salt water rinses starting 24 hours after surgery
- •Avoid smoking, straws, and vigorous rinsing (risk of dry socket)
- •Exparel patients typically report minimal discomfort during this period
Days 4-7
- •Swelling begins to subside
- •Gradually return to normal diet as comfort allows
- •Continue oral hygiene with gentle brushing
- •Follow-up appointment if needed
Weeks 2-4
- •Soft tissue healing is largely complete
- •Return to normal activities
- •If bone grafting was performed, the graft continues to mature over 3-6 months
When to Call Our Office
- •Bleeding that doesn't stop with gauze pressure after 30 minutes
- •Severe pain not controlled by medication
- •Fever, increasing swelling after day 3, or pus (signs of infection)
- •Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- •Numbness persisting beyond 24 hours
We provide 24/7 emergency contact for all surgical patients.
Key Benefits
- •Full anesthesia options including IV sedation
- •Exparel for 48-72 hours of pain-free recovery
- •3D imaging for complex cases
- •Bone preservation techniques available
- •Same-day tooth replacement options
- •Single-visit full-mouth extractions
- •Gentle, compassionate approach
- •24/7 emergency after-hours care
Recovery Time
3-7 days for simple; 1-2 weeks for surgical extractions
Explore Other Procedures
Have Questions About Dental Extractions?
Schedule a consultation to discuss if this procedure is right for you