- 27 Village Center Drive, Suite A-5, Reading, PA 19607
Tooth Extractions in Reading, PA
Tooth extractions are a common way to get rid of teeth that are broken, decayed, or can’t be fixed in any other way. Extraction is usually the last option, but it may be needed to keep the mouth healthy and working.
There are several reasons why someone may need a tooth extraction, including:
- Severe decay: If a tooth is severely decayed and cannot be repaired with a filling or crown, it may need to be extracted.
- Gum disease: If gum disease has caused the bone and tissue supporting a tooth to deteriorate, the tooth may need to be extracted.
- Orthodontic treatment: In some cases, tooth extractions may be necessary to create space for orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign.
- Impacted teeth: Teeth that are impacted, or unable to emerge from the gums, may need to be extracted to prevent infection or other complications.
Simple vs. Surgical Tooth Extractions
Not every extraction is the same. Dr. Amanda Clemente looks at your X-rays first and tells you which type you need before anything is scheduled.
- Simple extraction: the tooth is fully visible above the gum and comes out in one piece after the area is numbed.
- Surgical extraction: used when a tooth is broken at the gumline, has curved or long roots, is impacted, or is fused to the bone. A small opening in the gum is made, and the tooth may be removed in sections.
As a periodontist, Dr. Clemente handles the gum and bone around the tooth with care. This matters if you want an implant in that spot later.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Reading
We remove wisdom teeth here in our Reading office, including impacted and complex cases. You don’t need a separate referral to an oral surgeon. Wisdom teeth are often taken out when they:
- Are stuck under the gum or bone, or coming in at an angle
- Cause repeated swelling, infection or pain at the back of the mouth
- Trap food and lead to decay or gum disease on the neighboring molar
- Don’t have room to come in fully
At your consultation, Dr. Clemente reviews your X-rays and explains whether your wisdom teeth need to come out now or can be monitored.
Sedation and Same-Day Extractions
If you feel anxious about having a tooth removed, ask about sedation when you book. Sedation is available for wisdom teeth and complex extractions, so you can stay relaxed through the procedure.
A tooth that is badly broken, infected or causing sudden pain shouldn’t wait weeks. Tell us about your symptoms when you call (610) 777-7002. We offer same-day surgical extractions when possible to get you out of pain quickly.
Planning to Replace the Tooth
After a back tooth or a front tooth is removed, the jawbone in that spot slowly shrinks. If you’re thinking about a dental implant, it helps to plan before the extraction rather than after.
Because Keystone Periodontal Group also places dental implants and performs bone and sinus grafting, Dr. Clemente can talk with you about whether a bone graft is needed to keep the site ready for an implant. That way the extraction, healing and implant are planned as one treatment, in one office.
Aftercare: The First Few Days
Most patients feel back to normal within a few days after a simple extraction. Surgical and wisdom tooth extractions can take a little longer. You’ll get written instructions to take home. In general:
- Bite on gauze for the first hour to help a blood clot form
- Don’t use straws, spit forcefully or smoke for several days, as this can dislodge the clot and cause dry socket
- Use ice packs on the cheek the first day to limit swelling
- Eat soft, cool foods and chew on the other side
- Start gentle warm salt-water rinses the next day
Call us if bleeding, swelling or pain gets worse after day three.
What Affects the Cost of an Extraction
We give you the fee and an estimate of your insurance coverage before treatment begins. The cost of a tooth extraction depends on:
- Whether it’s a simple or a surgical extraction
- How many teeth are removed, and whether wisdom teeth are impacted
- Whether you choose sedation
- Whether a bone graft is placed to prepare for an implant
- X-rays or 3D imaging needed to plan the procedure
Insurance and payment: [add: insurance plans accepted and any financing or payment options].
Why choose us for your tooth extraction procedure?
At our periodontal practice, we are experts in tooth extraction procedures. Our team of highly trained and experienced periodontists and dental surgeons are committed to providing the highest quality care to our patients.
We use cutting-edge tools and methods to make sure that your tooth extraction goes as smoothly, safely, and comfortably as possible.
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