Extraction in Reddick
A tooth that aches every time you bite down, a wisdom tooth pressing against its neighbor, a molar cracked beyond what a crown can hold together — these are the moments when removing a tooth becomes the healthiest path forward. For our patients in Reddick, that decision usually comes with questions: Will it hurt? How long will I be sore? What happens to the gap afterward? We answer all of that before anything begins, so you walk into treatment knowing exactly what to expect.
An extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jaw. We never recommend one lightly — our first goal is always to save a natural tooth with a filling, crown, or root canal therapy when the tooth can still do its job. But some teeth are too damaged, too loose, or too crowded to keep, and holding onto them can put the surrounding bone and neighboring teeth at risk.
We see Reddick patients for extractions in a wide range of situations. Deep decay that has destroyed too much tooth structure. Advanced gum disease that has loosened a tooth beyond support. A fracture that runs below the gumline. Baby teeth that won't give way for the permanent tooth coming in behind them. Teeth that need to come out to make room for orthodontic treatment. And wisdom teeth, which often arrive sideways, partially trapped under the gum, or impossible to keep clean — a common reason adults and older teens come to see us.
There are two approaches, and which one you need depends on the tooth itself rather than on how serious your situation feels. A simple extraction is used when the tooth is fully visible above the gumline and can be loosened and lifted out with hand instruments. We numb the area thoroughly, gently widen the socket, and remove the tooth. Many loose teeth, badly decayed but intact teeth, and retained baby teeth fall into this category, and the appointment is often shorter than patients expect.
A surgical extraction is used when a tooth is broken at or below the gumline, hasn't fully erupted, or has roots that are curved or fused to the bone. This involves making a small opening in the gum tissue to reach the tooth, and sometimes sectioning it into pieces so it can be removed without stressing the surrounding bone. Impacted wisdom teeth are the most familiar example. Surgical removal sounds more involved, and it is, but it is also more controlled — dividing a stubborn tooth is often gentler on your jaw than forcing it out whole. We handle both types in our office, and we accept patients without a referral for oral surgery care.
What to Expect Before, During, and After
Your visit starts with an exam and imaging so we can see the root shape, the bone around it, and anything near the extraction site. We review your medical history and medications, confirm which approach fits, and discuss comfort options — we offer nitrous oxide sedation and oral sedation dentistry for patients who feel anxious or who are facing a longer procedure.
- Thorough local anesthesia so the area is fully numb before we begin
- A clear explanation of whether your case is simple or surgical, and why
- Gauze and written aftercare instructions before you leave
- Guidance on managing swelling, soreness, and what to eat for the first few days
- A conversation about replacing the tooth, if replacement makes sense for you
Healing is mostly about protecting the blood clot that forms in the socket. For the first day or so, skip straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing, stick to soft foods, and rest. Mild swelling and tenderness are normal and fade over the following days. If something feels wrong — sharp pain that worsens instead of improving, or bleeding that won't settle — call us. We offer emergency dental appointments, and we would much rather hear from you early.
Replacing the Tooth and Paying for Care
Once the site heals, a gap in a visible or chewing area can be filled in several ways. We provide dental implants, bridges, implant-supported bridges, and complete or partial dentures, plus bone grafting and sinus lift surgery when the jaw needs rebuilding first. Our on-site dental lab lets us fabricate and repair dentures and crowns in-house, which keeps timelines tighter for patients driving in from Reddick.
We accept all major PPO insurance plans, welcome self-pay patients, and offer flexible payment plans so cost doesn't delay treatment you need. Our team has cared for Marion County families for over 30 years, and Dr. Hussein Salifu and Dr. Marco Geris treat patients of all ages — from a child's stubborn baby tooth to full-mouth care for adults. Call us to schedule an evaluation.