The Extraction Process
We use high-quality anesthesia
Before we start, Dr. Soyfer or Dr. Mansouri will numb the tooth itself, the gum tissue around it and the jaw bone with a local anesthetic as much as possible. You will remain comfortable throughout the process.
As the tooth is extracted, you may experience a fair amount of pressure as the doctor rocks the tooth to gradually widen the socket. This is completely normal. The anesthetic successfully prevents the perception of pain, but it does not eliminate every type of sensation; you should still feel some pressure. In case you feel uncomfortable at any point, always inform us immediately so we can ensure you are still comfortable.
Book AppointmentSectioning a Tooth
A common and simple procedure
Sometimes a tooth is so tightly anchored or has roots that are bent and make removal difficult.
When this occurs we sometimes have to section the tooth — a very common and straightforward procedure.
The doctor splits the tooth into several smaller pieces and removes them piece by piece.
This method is typically quicker and less aggressive to the surrounding bone and tissue.
After Your Tooth Extraction
Avoid disturbing for 72 hours
Immediately after the procedure, it’s crucial for a nice blood clot to form in the socket. The blood forms a clot that protects the area and initiates the healing process.
We’ll put a gauze pad in your mouth for you to bite down on tightly for 30 to 60 minutes. If bleeding or oozing does not subside, just switch out the pad and bite down again for 30 minutes.
You might have to repeat this once or twice until the bleeding stops.
Now that the clot is in place, whenever possible avoid disturbing it for 72 hours.
Patient Testimonials
Avoid the following
- Rinsing your mouth vigorously
- Using straws
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol
- Brushing straight next to the extraction site
These activities may dislodge the clot and impede healing. It’s also wise to avoid vigorous exercise for the first 24 hours; increasing blood pressure can lead to more bleeding.
It’s normal to experience some swelling and discomfort after the extraction. Using an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel on the outside of your cheek will help keep swelling down. We’ll give you instructions for taking pain medication, and most patients report the swelling is much better within 48 hours.
If given medication, take it exactly as directed. Complete the entire course of antibiotics, if they’re prescribed, even if you begin to feel better. On the day you’re extracted, eat (soft, nutritious) food in addition to fluids. You may resume your normal diet as soon as you feel comfortable.
After the initial 24 hours, we suggest you kindly ease back into your normal oral hygiene routines — brushing and flossing gently — to help keep your mouth clean and promote quicker healing.
Please note!
Most patients feel much better after some days and can go back to their daily routines
If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, or swelling that does not subside or gets worse after 2–3 days, or if you have an unusual reaction to medication, please do call our office immediately.
At Arlington Family Dental Care, we want to prioritize your comfort and long-term dental health. Dr. Soyfer and Dr. Mansouri will walk you through each stage of the process with compassion and clarity.
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Dental Insurance Coverage for Tooth Extractions at Arlington Family Dental Care
Tooth extraction is never a pleasant prospect, and no one wants to have to navigate the intricacies of insurance. At Arlington Family Dental Care, we strive to take the stress out of your life: our team will explain in detail how your insurance contributes to the cost of treatment, including what is and isn't covered. Before any procedure (even the simplest), you'll know the total cost and avoid unexpected bills—this is crucial for us.
We work with almost all major insurance companies
However, there's a catch: policy details can vary down to the last detail. If you want complete clarity, I recommend checking with your insurance agent about important details (response time can sometimes make all the difference!). Our website makes it simple: we've compiled basic information about how dental insurance works—it's helpful for a general understanding.
What if you don't have insurance?
We've thought about that, too. Firstly, our tooth extraction rates are quite budget-friendly, even without insurance. Secondly, if your expenses are unexpectedly high, we offer proven installment plans through our partners. Feeling like your budget is bursting at the seams? No problem. For such cases, we've launched our own Savings Plan: essentially a small "subscription" that provides significant discounts on any dental service, whether it's a routine checkup or a complex procedure.
In short, it's important to us not only to provide a high-quality solution to your dental problem, but also to ensure you clearly understand the financial implications and can choose a truly convenient payment option. We'll take care of the rest!
Frequently Asked Questions
🔹 After what time can solid food be reintroduced after tooth removal?
Typically, individuals are able to eat soft solid food after a day or two. Start with simple options such as eggs, yogurt, or mashed potatoes. Once you feel comfortable enough, you can progress to foods with more texture. Arlington Family Dental Care will inform you when it is safe to resume your normal diet.
🔹 What should you eat following a tooth extraction?
Focus on eating soft foods that won’t hurt your mouth and are easy to chew. Great options include smoothies, applesauce, oatmeal, and soft pasta. Drink lots of water, but avoid using a straw for the first few days, as the suction can interrupt the healing process.
🔹 How long to keep gauze after tooth extraction?
The gauze should be removed as the bleeding begins to slow, which typically occurs within a couple of hours. As per the instructions of your Arlington Family Dental Care, clean gauze should be used to replace the old gauze.
🔹 Will I experience pain from having a tooth extracted?
The Arlington Family Dental Care care team will take steps to ensure you feel completely pain free before the procedure starts. During the procedure you will not feel any pain, although some tenderness or swelling is expected afterward. We will provide a detailed guide to aftercare including the use of ice, medications, and any other steps needed to ensure you have a comfortable recovery. If you are still experiencing swelling or soreness after the expected period, contact your Arlington Family Dental Care office.
🔹 What are the advantages of removing a tooth?
Removing a tooth can alleviate pain from serious decay or an infection, safeguard your adjacent teeth and gums, clear out congested or impacted teeth that disrupt your bite.
Contact Us Today!
Get in Touch
4225 Henderson Rd APT 101, Arlington, Virginia 22203
571-541-7977
svvdmd@gmail.com
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday: Closed