Tooth Extractions

Most patients are relieved to find that tooth extractions are far less involved than they expected. At Rockefeller Dentistry, Dr. Marc Gainor, Dr. Richard Rausch, and Dr. Eric Chason perform tooth extractions in Midtown Manhattan with precision and care, using local anesthetic and sedation options to keep you comfortable throughout. When a tooth cannot be saved, removing it promptly is the right move for your long-term oral health. Call 212-246-1333 or book an appointment online today.

When a tooth extraction may be necessary

Extracting a tooth is never the first choice, but it is sometimes the right one. The doctors at Rockefeller Dentistry will always evaluate whether a tooth can be saved before recommending removal. An extraction may be necessary when a tooth has decay or damage that cannot be repaired, when advanced gum disease has compromised the tooth's support structure, when teeth are overcrowded and removal is needed to create proper alignment, when a tooth is impacted and not emerging correctly, when wisdom teeth are causing problems, or when one or more teeth need to be removed in preparation for dental implants or dentures.

Precision and care from an experienced team

Dr. Gainor's MAGD designation and over 2400 hours of postgraduate training reflect a career built on clinical precision. Dr. Rausch is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American College of Dentistry, and the International College of Dentistry. That level of training means patients at Rockefeller Dentistry are in experienced hands even for procedures that feel routine, and it means complications are recognized and managed quickly when they arise.

What to expect during the procedure

Tooth extraction at Rockefeller Dentistry is a straightforward procedure when performed by an experienced dental team. If you feel anxious about the process, the doctors can provide anti-anxiety medication or other sedation options to help you feel comfortable before and during the procedure.

The extraction begins with a local anesthetic to numb the tooth, gums, and surrounding jaw so you feel no pain during removal. The doctor then uses specialized dental instruments to gently loosen the tooth from its socket. You may feel some pressure as the tooth is removed, but you should not feel pain. In most cases the procedure takes only a few minutes. If you receive any form of sedation, plan to have someone available to drive you home afterward.

Caring for the extraction site

Proper aftercare is important for healing and preventing complications. Following your procedure, bite down gently on gauze to encourage clotting and reduce bleeding. Apply an ice pack to your cheek to manage swelling in the first few hours. Avoid brushing or rinsing the extraction site for the first 24 hours. Stick to soft foods and liquids for the first few days and avoid smoking or tobacco use for at least 72 hours. Strenuous physical activity should be avoided for at least 24 hours as well.

If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. The doctors may also prescribe antibiotics if there is a risk of infection. Complete aftercare instructions will be provided before you leave the office.

Financing options

Tooth extractions at Rockefeller Dentistry can be financed through CareCredit, LendingClub, and Cherry, all of which offer no-interest options for patients who qualify.

Call Rockefeller Dentistry at 212-246-1333 to schedule an extraction consultation, or book an appointment online today.