Tooth extractions in Denver, CO
Colorado Oral Surgery provides patient-centered tooth extractions for adults and teens in Denver, Colorado and the surrounding community. This page explains when removal is recommended, what happens during the visit, and how to recover comfortably.
Tooth extractions explained
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket when keeping it is no longer predictable or healthy. Reasons include deep decay, cracked roots, advanced gum disease, broken teeth below the gumline, failed root canal treatment, impaction, and orthodontic crowding.
There are two main approaches: simple extraction for visible teeth and surgical extraction for broken, impacted, or difficult-to-access teeth.
Benefits of tooth extraction
Relieves pain from severe infection or fracture
Prevents spread of decay or gum disease to neighboring teeth
Reduces risk of recurrent swelling and abscesses
Prepares a site for a future implant, bridge, or denture
Your recovery and what to expect
Some tenderness and minor bleeding are common the first day. Bite on gauze as directed, keep your head elevated, and apply cold packs in 10-minute intervals for the first 24 hours.
- Eat soft, cool foods the first day and advance your diet as comfort allows
- Do not use straws, spit forcefully, or rinse vigorously for 24 hours
- After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm saltwater several times a day
- Avoid smoking or vaping for at least 3 days to prevent dry socket
Soft tissue typically heals in one to two weeks. Bone matures over several months; if planning an implant, timing is discussed during your consultation.
How a tooth extraction works
1) Evaluation
Clinical exam and X-rays map roots, bone levels, and nearby anatomy. The plan outlines whether a simple or surgical approach is best.
2) Anesthesia
The area is fully numbed. Sedation options are available when appropriate for patient comfort.
3) Extraction
For simple extraction, instruments loosen and lift the tooth. For surgical extraction, an incision may be made and the tooth sectioned for removal.
4) Closure
The site is cleaned, stitches may be placed, and gauze is used to apply pressure and start clot formation.