Tooth Extractions Calgary

Tooth Extractions in Calgary – Gentle, Professional Care

Whether it’s due to severe decay, damage, or to make room for orthodontic treatment, tooth extraction is sometimes necessary for your overall oral health. At Cougar Ridge Dental in Calgary, we make the procedure as comfortable, safe, and stress-free as possible.

When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?

We do everything we can to preserve your natural teeth. However, there are situations where removal is the healthiest option. Common reasons include:

• Severe tooth decay: When a cavity has progressed beyond the help of a filling or crown.
• Advanced gum disease: Periodontal disease can cause bone loss, making teeth loose and unstable.
• Impacted or overcrowded teeth: Often applies to wisdom teeth or for orthodontic preparation.
• Fractured teeth: Especially when the break extends below the gumline and can't be repaired.
• Abscess or infection: If antibiotics or root canal therapy are not effective, removal may be necessary.

Before any extraction, we perform a full clinical exam and take X-rays to determine the best course of action and ensure your safety and comfort.

What to Expect During Your Extraction

Knowing what happens during a tooth extraction can help ease anxiety. Here's what to expect:

• Step 1 – Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area. Sedation options are available for a more relaxed experience.
• Step 2 – Tooth removal: The tooth is gently loosened using specialized tools. For difficult cases, the tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces.
• Step 3 – Post-removal care: We clean the socket, place gauze to stop bleeding, and may use stitches to support healing.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Please inform us about any medical conditions or medications, especially those related to your heart, liver, or immune system. This allows us to take the appropriate precautions for a safe and effective treatment.

Healing & Aftercare

Proper care after your extraction can help prevent complications and speed up recovery:

• Managing pain and swelling: Most patients do well with ibuprofen or other over-the-counter medications. Cold compresses help reduce swelling.
• What to eat: Stick to soft foods like applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hot drinks, spicy foods, and straws.
• Oral hygiene: Gently rinse with salt water after 24 hours. Avoid brushing near the extraction site until advised.
• Healing timeline: Most discomfort fades in a few days. Complete healing may take a few weeks. Contact us if pain worsens after several days, as this could indicate a dry socket.

Post-Extraction FAQs