We only recommend extraction after confirming a filling, crown, or root canal genuinely won't work. Smile Center Dentistry walks through aftercare before you're numb, not after.
A socket that isn't managed properly can complicate healing — we plan for that from the start. Recovery matters as much as the procedure itself, which is why aftercare gets real attention here.
A second opinion within our own team is standard for borderline cases before extraction is finalized. We'd rather have that internal conversation than rush a decision that can't be undone.
Straightforward extractions are handled in-house; more complex surgical cases are coordinated with an oral surgeon when needed. We don't attempt cases beyond our scope — we refer out when that's genuinely the better option.
We discuss this option at your consult, not as an afterthought once the tooth is already gone. This step is optional, and we explain the trade-offs honestly.
You leave with written aftercare instructions and a direct number to call if something doesn't feel right. Most complications are preventable with the right aftercare, which is why we take this step seriously.
Not every extraction is the same procedure — here's what's typically involved depending on your case.
For teeth that are visible and accessible, a simple extraction using an elevator and forceps is usually quick. We confirm the socket is stable before you leave.
For teeth that are broken at the gumline or difficult to access, a surgical approach may be needed, coordinated with an oral surgeon. Recovery expectations are discussed honestly, since these cases take longer to heal.
Bone grafting material placed in the socket immediately after extraction helps preserve volume for a future implant. We explain the added cost and healing time clearly before you decide.
Antibiotics may be prescribed alongside extraction depending on infection severity. We monitor healing closely on infected extraction sites.
A follow-up check is scheduled to confirm the socket is healing as expected. We're reachable directly if something feels off during recovery.
We discuss replacement options — bridge, denture, or implant — before treatment, not after the teeth are already gone. Staging complex cases in phases is sometimes the better approach, and we'll say so.
We ask about pain level and swelling to determine how quickly you need to be seen.
Digital X-rays confirm the tooth's condition and whether a simple or surgical approach applies.
Local anesthesia keeps the procedure comfortable; simple cases are typically quick, surgical cases take longer.
You leave with written recovery instructions and a scheduled follow-up if needed.
"They tried a root canal option first before recommending extraction. Appreciated that they didn't jump straight to pulling it."
"Surgical extraction for an impacted tooth near the gumline — they were upfront it would take longer and it did, but recovery went smoothly."
"Infected tooth pulled same week I called. Antibiotics beforehand and the pain was gone within days."
"They called it correctly as a simple case, no surprise complications, no surprise bill."
"Needed three teeth out and they staged it over two visits instead of doing everything at once. Recovery was much more manageable."
The extraction itself is done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure — some soreness afterward is normal. We check in after your procedure if we expect a more involved recovery.
It depends on the tooth's position and condition — visible, accessible teeth are usually simple; broken or impacted teeth may need a surgical approach. Knowing this in advance also sets accurate recovery expectations.
We cover dry socket prevention specifically in your written aftercare instructions. It's uncomfortable but treatable if it happens — call us right away if you suspect it.
If you're considering an implant later, grafting at the time of extraction helps preserve bone for that future procedure. Grafting adds a modest amount to recovery time but can save complications later.
Simple extractions typically heal within a week to ten days; surgical cases can take longer. We schedule a follow-up to confirm healing is on track for your specific case.
We break down each component of the cost so there's no confusion about what you're paying for. Multiple-tooth cases are quoted per tooth so you can see the full breakdown.
Smile Center Dentistry provides Tooth Extraction to patients throughout Dearborn and neighboring Dearborn, MI communities. We coordinate with local oral surgeons for the most complex surgical cases, so a referral doesn't mean starting over elsewhere.
We'll explore every alternative before recommending extraction.
Call +1-866-227-2801