Dr. Jennifer Okhiria removes teeth that can't be saved because of deep decay, fractures or infection at The Buckhead Oral Surgery Suite in Atlanta. She plans ahead for what replaces the tooth, including bone grafts and immediate dentures made with your dentist.
Taking a tooth out with the next step in mind
How do you decide a tooth can't be saved?
Usually your dentist has already tried or ruled out a filling, crown or root canal. Dr. Okhiria confirms it on the scan and explains why. If she thinks the tooth has a chance, she'll send you back to your dentist to try.
Should I think about an implant now?
If you might want an implant later, it's worth planning before the extraction. A graft placed in the socket the same day keeps the bone from shrinking and makes the implant simpler.
Can I leave with teeth the same day?
When several teeth come out at once, an immediate denture can go in at the same visit. Your general dentist usually makes it, and we coordinate the timing so you're not left without teeth.
What is recovery like?
Most single extractions heal in about one to two weeks. Stick to soft foods for the first several days and follow the written instructions you go home with.
Honest limits
We don't do fillings, crowns or root canals. If a tooth might be saved, the right place to start is your general dentist or an endodontist, and we'll say so.
Cost and scheduling
Extractions of damaged or infected teeth are often partly covered by insurance. You'll get a printed estimate before we begin.
Questions patients ask about tooth extractions
Is it better to save a tooth or pull it?
Keeping your natural tooth is usually best when it can be done predictably. If a crown or root canal has a good chance of working, Dr. Okhiria will send you back to your dentist. When it doesn't, extraction with a plan for replacement is the better choice at our Atlanta office.
What can replace an extracted tooth?
The main options are an implant, a bridge made by your dentist, or a removable partial denture. If an implant is likely, a bone graft at the time of extraction helps. Dr. Okhiria in Atlanta explains the options before the tooth comes out.
How long does an extraction take?
A simple extraction can take a few minutes once you're numb. Surgical extractions of broken or deeply rooted teeth take longer. Dr. Okhiria gives you a realistic time at the consult in Atlanta so you can plan your day and your ride.
What should I eat after an extraction?
Stick to soft, cool foods for the first few days, like yogurt, eggs and soup that isn't hot. Avoid straws, smoking and crunchy foods while the socket heals. Our Atlanta office sends you home with a written list of what to eat and avoid.
Can several teeth be removed in one visit?
Yes. Removing several teeth at once is common, especially before dentures or implants. IV sedation makes a longer visit more comfortable. Dr. Okhiria coordinates with your dentist in Atlanta so a denture is ready the same day when you need one.
Request a consult
Send a request and our team will call you to find a time. Most patients come with a referral from their dentist, and you're welcome without one.