Tooth Extraction in San Francisco
Sometimes saving a tooth isn’t possible, and removal is the healthiest option. At Financial District Dentistry, we provide gentle, thorough tooth extractions for patients throughout San Francisco, CA who need a damaged, infected, or impacted tooth removed.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Common reasons for extraction include severe decay or infection that can’t be resolved with a filling or root canal, advanced gum disease that has loosened a tooth, crowding for orthodontic treatment, or an impacted wisdom tooth. During your exam, we’ll take X-rays and discuss whether extraction — or another treatment — is right for you.
Types of Tooth Extractions
A simple extraction is used for teeth that are visible and accessible above the gumline, while a surgical extraction is needed for teeth that are broken, impacted, or not fully erupted. Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common surgical procedures, often recommended when wisdom teeth are impacted or causing crowding.
What to Expect During Extraction
The area is fully numbed before your procedure begins, so extraction itself shouldn’t be painful — you may feel some pressure during the removal, with soreness once the numbness wears off. Most patients return to normal activities within 48 to 72 hours, though full healing takes longer.
Recovery and Aftercare
During the first 24 hours, avoid smoking, using straws, rinsing vigorously, or eating crunchy foods, as these can disturb the healing blood clot. Stick to soft foods and gentle brushing near the extraction site. If you develop increasing pain a few days after your procedure, it could be a sign of dry socket — a complication where the protective clot is lost — and you should call our office right away.
Tooth Replacement Options
If a visible or chewing tooth is removed, replacement may help maintain your bite and appearance. Common options include dental implants, bridges, and partial dentures. Wisdom teeth typically don’t need to be replaced.
Emergency Extractions
If you’re dealing with severe pain, swelling, or trauma, we also provide emergency dental care, including same-day extractions when needed.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of extraction depends on the type of procedure and whether replacement is planned. Visit our Financial Information page for payment and insurance details.
Schedule Your Extraction Consultation
If you’re dealing with a painful or damaged tooth, our team at Financial District Dentistry is here to help. Contact us or request an appointment today.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
How do I know if I need a tooth extraction?
You may need an extraction if a tooth is severely decayed, infected, cracked, loose, or impacted. An exam and X-rays will confirm whether extraction is the right option.
Is tooth extraction painful?
The area is numbed before your procedure, so extraction shouldn’t be painful, though you may feel pressure during removal and soreness afterward.
How long does recovery take?
Many people return to normal activities within 48 to 72 hours, though full healing takes longer depending on the tooth and extraction type.
What should I avoid after an extraction?
Avoid smoking, straws, vigorous rinsing, and crunchy foods during early healing, as these can disturb the healing blood clot.
What is dry socket?
Dry socket is a painful complication that occurs when the protective blood clot is lost from the extraction site, and it usually requires dental care to treat.
Should I replace a tooth after extraction?
Wisdom teeth often don’t need replacement, but a visible or chewing tooth may be replaced with an implant, bridge, or partial denture to maintain function and appearance.
Do you offer emergency extractions?
Yes, we provide emergency extractions for severe pain, swelling, or trauma. Call (415) 399-9999 right away.
Schedule Your Consultation
Contact us at (415) 399-9999 to discuss your tooth extraction options.