When Tooth Extraction Is the Best Option
At Elite Dental Specialists, our top priority is preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are times when removing a tooth is the healthiest solution. Whether due to severe decay, advanced periodontal disease, irreparable fracture, or preparation for orthodontics or dental implants, Dr. Ali Obeidi and our skilled team provide gentle, effective tooth extractions in Houston, TX, with your comfort and long-term oral health in mind.
Your Smile is in Good Hands
Common Reasons for Tooth Extractions
- Severe decay or infection
- Advanced gum disease
- Fractured or broken teeth
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Orthodontic preparation
- Baby teeth that haven’t fallen out
- Tooth crowding or spacing concerns
Our Gentle Tooth Extraction Process
Dr. Obeidi begins every extraction with a thorough evaluation, including digital X-rays to assess the root and bone structure. If extraction is necessary, we prioritize your comfort using local anesthesia and offer sedation options to help you relax.
During the procedure:
- The tooth is gently loosened with an elevator.
- Specialized forceps are used to remove the tooth without damaging surrounding bone or gum tissue.
- In some cases, a tooth may be sectioned into pieces for easier removal.
You may feel pressure, but you should not feel pain. If you experience discomfort, let us know immediately—we’re here to help.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth (third molars) often become impacted due to limited space or poor alignment. This can lead to:
- Swelling and pain
- Tooth crowding
- Gum infection or cyst formation
We offer simple and surgical wisdom tooth extraction with local anesthesia and sedation. Complex cases may be referred to an oral surgeon for specialized care.
Immediate Implant Placement After Extraction
Tooth loss can lead to bone resorption and changes in facial appearance. That’s why we often recommend immediate implant placement—a cutting-edge technique that allows us to place a dental implant at the same appointment as your tooth extraction.
Benefits of Immediate Implant Placement:
- Preserves gum and bone structure
- Reduces treatment time
- Enhances cosmetic outcomes
- Minimizes need for bone grafting
- Promotes quicker healing and Osseointegration
- More cost-effective with fewer visits
Post-Extraction Instructions for a Smooth Recovery
After your extraction, we’ll give you detailed home-care instructions. Here’s what to expect:
- Bleeding: Use moist gauze and bite down firmly for 45 minutes.
- Swelling: Apply an ice pack for 10 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
- Pain: Use over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
- Eating: Avoid hot liquids, alcohol, and straws for 24 hours. Stick to soft foods.
- Cleaning: Wait 24 hours before brushing the area. Rinse with warm salt water after meals.
- Avoid dry socket by not smoking, spitting, or rinsing vigorously.
Why Choose Elite Dental Specialists for Tooth Extractions?
- Prosthodontic Expertise
- Advanced Imaging and Sedation Options
- Immediate Implant Placement Available
- Compassionate, Patient-Focused Care
- Insurance & Financing Options Offered
A Healthier, Pain-Free Smile Is Just a Call Away
Whether you need a simple extraction, wisdom tooth removal, or immediate implant placement, Dr. Obeidi and the Elite Dental Specialist team are here to restore your comfort and help you smile confidently again.
Call (281) 397-3352
FAQ
1. How much does a tooth extraction cost in Houston, TX?
The cost depends on the type of extraction needed:
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Simple extractions: typically $150–$300
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Surgical extractions: $250–$500+
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Wisdom teeth: $300–$800 per tooth depending on complexity
Your exact cost will be reviewed after your exam and digital X-rays. We accept all major PPO insurance plans and offer flexible financing for uninsured patients.
2. Does a tooth extraction hurt?
No—extractions should not be painful. With local anesthesia and optional sedation, you will feel pressure but no sharp pain. Most patients are surprised by how quick and comfortable the procedure is. Any post-treatment soreness is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter medications.
3. How long does it take to recover from an extraction?
Most patients feel significantly better within 24–72 hours. Full healing of the socket typically takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the tooth removed and your health. Following your aftercare instructions—especially avoiding smoking, straws, and vigorous spitting—helps prevent complications like dry socket.
4. What is a dry socket and how do I avoid it?
A dry socket occurs when the protective blood clot becomes dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves. It can be painful, but is very preventable. To avoid dry socket:
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Do not smoke or vape
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Do not drink through a straw
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Avoid spitting or rinsing vigorously
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Follow your post-op care instructions carefully
If you experience worsening pain after 2–3 days, call us right away.
5. Can I get a dental implant the same day my tooth is removed?
Yes—many patients are candidates for immediate implant placement, where the implant is placed during the same appointment as the extraction. This approach:
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Preserves bone and gum structure
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Speeds up your treatment timeline
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Reduces the number of visits
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Improves esthetic and functional outcomes
Dr. Obeidi will evaluate bone quality and gum health to confirm if this option is right for you.
6. When should wisdom teeth be removed?
Wisdom teeth are typically removed when they are:
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Impacted
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Causing pain or crowding
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Growing at an angle
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Causing infection or cysts
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Difficult to clean
Most patients benefit from removal between ages 15–25, but extractions can be done safely at any age.
7. What should I expect after the procedure?
You can expect:
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Mild swelling for 1–2 days
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Light bleeding for a few hours
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Soft-food diet for 24 hours
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Avoiding strenuous activities for the first day
We provide detailed written and verbal instructions so your healing goes smoothly. Follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor the site or prepare for implant placement.