The idea of having a tooth removed can feel stressful — but at Northshore Dental, we make the process gentle, safe, and comfortable. Dr. Alexa Kirkland and Dr. Karen Bennett use advanced techniques and sedation options to ensure your experience is as stress-free as possible.
When a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or causing other dental problems, extraction may be the best step to protect your health and comfort. We’ll guide you through every stage — from the procedure itself to your healing and tooth replacement options.
Call us at (425) 486-6511 or schedule a consultation online to discuss gentle extraction care.
When Is Extraction Necessary?
We always prioritize saving teeth whenever possible. Extraction may be needed if:
- Severe decay has damaged the tooth beyond repair
- Advanced gum disease has loosened supporting structures
- Trauma or fracture extends below the gum line
- Impacted wisdom teeth cause pain, crowding, or infection risk
- Orthodontic treatment requires space for proper alignment
- A tooth infection or abscess doesn’t respond to other treatment
Benefits of Extraction (When Necessary)
- Pain Relief – Relief from severe tooth pain
- Stops Infection – Prevents bacteria from spreading to other teeth or your body
- Protects Healthy Teeth – Stops problem teeth from damaging neighbors
- Supports Oral Hygiene – Removes teeth that are hard to clean or maintain
- Prepares for Replacement – Creates space for implants, bridges, or dentures
- Cost-Effective – Prevents more extensive, costly procedures later
Need relief now? Call us today to schedule a gentle, same-day extraction if you’re in pain.
Types of Extractions
- Simple Extractions – For teeth that are intact and easy to remove; quick and performed under local anesthesia.
- Surgical Extractions – For teeth broken at the gum line or severely decayed. Also done under local anesthesia with options for nitrous oxide or consious sedation.
- Wisdom Teeth Removal – Commonly needed when wisdom teeth cause pain, infection, or crowding. If you need all four wisdom teeth removed or they are impacted, we can refer you to a specialist for sedation.
- Emergency Extractions – For sudden pain, infection, or injury that needs immediate care.
Our Gentle Extraction Process
- Comprehensive Exam – Digital X-rays help us plan the safest approach.
- Comfort Planning – We review nitrous oxide and conscious sedation options and answer your questions.
- Tooth Removal – Local anesthesia numbs the area completely. There are also options like nitrous oxide or conscious sedation if desired.
- Bone grafting – An optional step to fill the socket with artificial bone. This helps preserve bone to support the adjacent teeth or any future restorations including implants, dentures, or bridges. Sutures are placed over the graft.
- Aftercare – Gauze is placed, and we provide detailed instructions for healing.
- Follow-Up – We monitor recovery and discuss replacement options when appropriate.
Sedation Options for Comfort
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) – Mild relaxation, wears off quickly.
- Oral Sedation – Medication taken before your visit for deeper calm. Requires a driver to and from visit.
- Local Anesthesia – Always used to numb the tooth area completely.
Most patients are surprised at how quick and comfortable extractions are with modern techniques.
Recovery & Aftercare
- First 24–48 hours – Rest, avoid straws/smoking, use gauze as directed.
- Pain management – OTC medication usually sufficient; cold compresses help swelling.
- Diet – Soft foods (yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes); reintroduce solids gradually.
- Oral hygiene – Brush and floss other teeth, but avoid the extraction site initially.
- Follow-up – We’ll check healing and plan for replacement if needed.
Tooth Replacement Options
After healing, replacing your tooth prevents shifting and restores function. Options include:
- Dental Implants – Long-lasting, most natural replacement.
- Dental Bridges – Fixed solution anchored to adjacent teeth.
- Partial or Full Dentures – Affordable way to replace multiple teeth.
- Immediate Replacement – Temporary restorations may be placed right after extraction.
Cost & Insurance
- Simple Extractions: $100–$200
- Surgical Extractions: $200–$300
- Bone grafting: $300–$450
- Most insurance plans cover 70–80% of extractions.
Why Choose Northshore Dental for Extractions?
- Gentle, Experienced Care – Dr. Kirkland and Dr. Bennett specialize in patient comfort.
- Multiple Sedation Options – Tailored to your comfort level.
- Emergency Availability – Same-day care for urgent pain or infection.
- Future Planning – We guide you through tooth replacement for long-term oral health.
- Convenient Location – All treatment provided in our Kenmore office with ample parking.
Schedule a Gentle Extraction Today
If you’re experiencing pain, infection, or need wisdom teeth removed, we’re here to help with gentle, stress-free extractions. Call (425) 486-6511 or book online today to schedule your consultation at Northshore Dental in Kenmore, WA.