Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Lee, DDS · Last reviewed June 20, 2026. Educational information, not a substitute for an exam — talk to our Hebron office.
What is a tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure where we remove an entire tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While we always prefer to save your natural teeth, sometimes removal becomes the healthiest option for your long-term wellness. This might happen if a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a crown or if severe decay has reached the root. We use local anesthesia to ensure you do not feel pain during the actual procedure.
It feels quick. Because we prioritize your comfort, our team uses modern numbing techniques so that you stay relaxed while we work. This helps minimize any physical or emotional tension throughout the appointment.
- Simple extractions for visible teeth
- Surgical removals for impacted wisdom teeth
- Root-level removals for broken teeth
When to pull a tooth
Deciding when a tooth needs to go can be difficult. You might notice certain warning signs that indicate a problem is worsening. If you experience persistent, throbbing pain or swelling in your gums, it is time to call us. Sometimes, a tooth looks fine on the surface but has deep decay underneath that only an X-ray can reveal.
Don't wait for the pain to become unbearable. Although many people try to ignore minor discomfort, delaying treatment often leads to more complex issues like infections or shifting teeth. We look for these specific signs during your routine exams at Crossroads Dental Group:
A tooth that is loose due to gum disease
Severe cracks that extend below the gum line
Crowding caused by wisdom teeth pushing against others
Infections that cannot be resolved with a root canal
Wisdom teeth removal in Hebron
Many patients in Central Ohio visit us specifically for wisdom teeth removal. These third molars often lack enough space to emerge properly, which can cause significant crowding or pain. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, they may stay trapped beneath the gum tissue and cause inflammation.
We handle these cases with care. Because surgical extractions require a slightly different approach than simple removals, we take extra time to ensure the site heals correctly without complications. Our goal is to prevent future issues like cysts or damage to your neighboring teeth.
What to expect during your visit
Your appointment follows a predictable, calm sequence. First, we take digital X-rays to see exactly how the tooth roots are positioned in your jaw. This step is vital so that we can choose the safest method for the removal.
Next, we apply topical numbing gel followed by a local anesthetic injection. You will feel a little pressure, but you should not feel sharp pain. Once you are fully numb, we proceed with the extraction itself. The entire process usually takes between 20 and 45 minutes depending on the complexity of the tooth.
After the tooth is out, we place a gauze pad over the site to help a blood clot form. This clot is necessary for healing. We will then provide you with specific instructions for your recovery at home.
Recovery and extraction aftercare
The first 24 hours are the most important part of your recovery. You should avoid straws, smoking, or vigorous spitting because these actions can dislodge the healing blood clot. If that clot is lost, you might develop a painful condition known as a dry socket.
A dry socket occurs when the bone and nerves are exposed to air and food. While it is manageable with our help, it is much better to prevent it through careful aftercare. We recommend sticking to soft foods like yogurt or lukewarm soup for the first few days.
Watch for these signs:
Increasing pain that radiates toward your ear
A foul taste in your mouth
Visible bone in the extraction site
Cost of tooth removal
We believe in transparent pricing for our Hebron neighbors. The cost of a tooth extraction varies based on whether it is a simple or surgical procedure. A single simple extraction typically ranges from $150 to $450, while more complex wisdom teeth removal can range from $300 to $900 per tooth.
These numbers change depending on the level of sedation you require and the specific difficulty of the case. Please contact our office for a personalized estimate after your consultation. We can also help you understand how your dental insurance might cover these services.
📘 Want the full picture? Read our Aftercare & Recovery Guide or see typical costs.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to heal?
Most people feel significantly better within 3 to 5 days. However, the gum tissue and bone can take several weeks or even months to fully mend.
Will it hurt after the numbness wears off?
You may experience some soreness or swelling once the anesthetic fades. We will recommend over-the-counter pain relief to keep you comfortable during this time.
Can I eat normally right away?
It is best to stick to soft foods for at least 24 to 48 hours. Avoid crunchy, spicy, or very hot foods that might irritate the extraction site.
Questions? Call (740) 527-0700 or request an appointment.