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Dental Extractions in Portsmouth, NH

At Coastal Periodontics, we understand that the thought of having a tooth removed can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to make the process as comfortable, safe, and stress-free as possible. Whether you need a wisdom tooth extraction, removal of a severely decayed tooth, or extraction in preparation for orthodontic treatment, our Portsmouth, NH dental team provides expert care and personalized attention every step of the way.

Why a Tooth Extraction May Be Necessary

Tooth extractions are recommended when keeping the natural tooth would put your oral health at risk or interfere with future treatment. Common reasons for dental extractions include:

• Severe tooth decay or infection that has spread to the root and cannot be treated with fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy
• Advanced periodontal (gum) disease, which can weaken the bone and lead to loose teeth
• Fractured or broken teeth that extend below the gum line and cannot be restored
• Wisdom teeth complications, including impaction, crowding, infection, or chronic pain
• Orthodontic reasons, where removing a tooth allows for proper alignment during braces or Invisalign® treatment
• Preparation for a dental prosthesis, such as dentures or a dental bridge, where removing damaged teeth ensures long-lasting results
• Cosmetic and functional reasons, when a problematic tooth interferes with your smile or bite

The Dental Extraction Process

When you visit our Portsmouth, NH periodontal office for an extraction, we begin with a thorough consultation and digital imaging to evaluate the affected tooth. Our periodontist will explain your treatment options and determine whether a simple extraction (above the gum line) or a surgical extraction (requiring a small incision) is needed.

To keep you comfortable, we offer local anesthesia and sedation dentistry options tailored to your needs. During the procedure, the tooth is carefully removed with precision to protect surrounding bone and gum tissue. Once complete, we provide detailed post-care instructions and discuss options for tooth replacement if necessary.

What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction

Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery. Patients can typically expect:

• Mild swelling or discomfort for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief
• Recommendations for a soft-food diet (soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes) during initial healing
• Instructions on how to care for the extraction site, including gentle rinsing and avoiding the use of straws to prevent dry socket
• Follow-up visits to monitor healing and discuss long-term solutions such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures

Most patients heal within 7–10 days, though surgical extractions may require additional time.

Benefits of Timely Tooth Extraction

Delaying treatment can lead to worsening infection, bone loss, and greater discomfort. By removing a problematic tooth early, you can:

• Prevent the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and gums
• Relieve chronic pain and pressure
• Protect your bite alignment and jawbone health
• Improve the success of future dental restorations or orthodontic treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will it hurt?
   With modern anesthesia and sedation options, most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.
2. How long is recovery?
   Initial healing generally takes about a week, with full bone and gum healing occurring over several months.
3. What are my tooth replacement options?
   If you need a permanent replacement, we may recommend dental implants, bridges, or dentures to restore function and appearance.

Expert Dental Extractions in Portsmouth, NH

At Coastal Periodontics, our experienced team is committed to providing advanced, compassionate care for patients needing tooth extractions. Whether you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, severe tooth decay, or preparing for orthodontic treatment, we are here to help protect your oral health.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation at our Portsmouth, NH office and learn more about comfortable, expert tooth extractions.