Tooth Extractions in Encinitas
Gentle removal, and a plan for what comes next
When a tooth cannot be saved, McElroy Smiles in Encinitas removes it gently and plans what comes next. We extract teeth that are badly decayed, cracked, loose from gum disease, or crowding your smile, with comfort options including nitrous, oral, and IV sedation, and we can replace the tooth with an implant or bridge.
When is a tooth extraction necessary?
We recommend removing a tooth only when it cannot be repaired: decay or damage beyond saving, a crack below the gumline, looseness from advanced gum disease, severe crowding, or an impacted tooth. Whenever we can save a tooth instead, we will, and we will explain the reasoning either way.
Is the procedure comfortable?
We numb the area thoroughly, and for anxious patients or more involved removals we offer nitrous, oral, and IV sedation. Dr. Greg McElroy is among a small number of dentists certified in IV sedation, and for the most extensive cases, deeper sedation is available through the practice's anesthesia provider. Most patients are surprised how easy it is.
What about replacing the tooth?
An empty space can let nearby teeth shift and bone shrink over time, so we plan replacement up front. Depending on your case, that may be a dental implant, which looks and works like a natural tooth, or a bridge. We will walk through the options, timing, and cost at your visit.
The area is fully numbed, so you should feel pressure but not pain during the extraction. We also offer nitrous, oral, and IV sedation for comfort. Mild soreness for a few days afterward is normal and managed with simple aftercare.
Yes. We offer nitrous, oral, and IV sedation, and Dr. Greg McElroy is among a small number of dentists certified in IV sedation. For the most extensive cases, deeper sedation is available through the practice's anesthesia provider.
Rest, keep gauze in place to control bleeding, avoid straws and smoking, and stick to soft foods for a day or two. We send you home with clear instructions and are a phone call away at (760) 621-8700 if anything comes up.
Most patients begin feeling better within a few days, though full healing can take one to two weeks depending on the complexity of the extraction.
