Glendale, Arizona
When a tooth cannot be saved, removing it promptly protects the surrounding teeth and bone. Dr. Dawson performs both simple and surgical extractions at Smile Science Dental Spa with sedation options tailored to your comfort level, and a clear plan for replacing the tooth before you leave.
Extraction is never a first resort. Before recommending removal, Dr. Dawson reviews your X-rays and clinical findings to determine whether the tooth can be preserved with a crown, root canal, or other restorative treatment. Tooth extraction is recommended only when the tooth is causing active harm, cannot structurally support a restoration, or when keeping it would compromise the health of adjacent teeth and bone.
When extraction is the right decision, acting promptly, rather than waiting for pain to become unbearable, leads to simpler procedures, faster healing, and more options for tooth replacement. If you have a tooth that has been bothering you or a dentist has flagged for evaluation, a consultation at Smile Science will give you a clear picture of your options.
The type of extraction depends on how much of the tooth is visible above the gumline, whether the roots are intact, and whether the tooth is fully erupted. Dr. Dawson determines the approach after reviewing your imaging.
Used when the tooth is fully erupted above the gumline and has intact roots that allow straightforward removal. The tooth is loosened with an elevator instrument, then removed with forceps. Local anesthetic eliminates discomfort during the procedure. Most patients are surprised at how fast and simple a properly anesthetized extraction is.
Required when a tooth is impacted, has broken off at or below the gumline, or has curved or dilacerated roots that prevent straightforward removal. Dr. Dawson makes a small incision to access the tooth and may section it into pieces for easier removal, which minimizes trauma to surrounding bone and tissue.
A note on wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth (third molars) are a category of their own. They are almost always surgical extractions due to their deep position and frequent impaction. If you are specifically researching wisdom tooth removal, see our dedicated wisdom teeth page for a full breakdown of impaction types, sedation, and recovery.
These are the most common clinical situations where extraction is the recommended course of action after all restorative options have been evaluated.
When decay has destroyed so much tooth structure that a crown or filling can no longer provide a stable, long-term restoration. Leaving such a tooth risks spread of infection to adjacent teeth and into the surrounding jawbone. Extraction removes the source of the problem and allows the area to heal cleanly.
When an abscess does not respond to root canal treatment or antibiotics, or when the infection has spread extensively into the surrounding bone. A tooth that has failed root canal therapy and cannot be retreated is a common extraction scenario. Prompt removal prevents the infection from spreading to the jaw or other systemic areas.
A vertical root fracture or a tooth split lengthwise (often from a large old filling or trauma) generally cannot be restored. These fractures typically allow bacteria to travel the length of the root, making both the tooth and surrounding bone unsalvageable. Extraction is the definitive treatment.
Severe gum disease can destroy the bone that anchors a tooth to the extent that the tooth becomes mobile and cannot be stabilized. Retaining a tooth with no bone support leads to continued bone loss in adjacent areas. Extraction followed by bone grafting preserves the ridge for future replacement options.
Overcrowded arches sometimes require the removal of one or more premolars to create the space needed for proper tooth alignment during Invisalign or braces treatment. Orthodontically driven extractions are planned in coordination with your orthodontist to ensure the right teeth are removed at the right time in treatment.
Partially erupted or fully impacted third molars frequently become infected or apply pressure that damages neighboring second molars. Removal before active problems develop is far simpler than extracting an infected, inflamed wisdom tooth. We evaluate wisdom teeth at every new patient exam and recommend removal based on your specific anatomy.
Every extraction at Smile Science follows the same careful sequence, from imaging through discharge, so you know exactly what to expect before you arrive.
Digital periapical X-rays reveal root shape, curvature, proximity to nerves, and bone density around the tooth. For complex cases, particularly impacted wisdom teeth near the inferior alveolar nerve, CBCT cone-beam 3D imaging gives us precise spatial information that 2D X-rays cannot provide. Dr. Dawson reviews all imaging with you before the procedure begins.
Local anesthetic is administered to numb the site thoroughly. You will feel pressure and movement during the procedure but no sharp pain. Based on your anxiety level and the complexity of the case, sedation is layered on top of local anesthetic. Options include nitrous oxide (light), oral conscious sedation (moderate), and IV sedation administered by our board-certified dentist anesthesiologist (deep relaxation for complex or anxiety cases).
For simple cases, the tooth is loosened with an elevator and removed with forceps. For surgical cases, a small gum incision provides access, and the tooth may be sectioned into pieces for removal, this actually reduces trauma compared to forcing an intact tooth out of a tight socket. Dr. Dawson works to preserve surrounding bone throughout the process.
If a dental implant is planned for the future, socket preservation bone grafting can be placed at the same appointment. A bone graft material is packed into the socket to maintain the ridge volume that would otherwise resorb over the following months. This one step dramatically simplifies the implant procedure later and often makes the difference between needing a major graft versus a straightforward implant placement.
Gauze is placed over the socket and you bite down with firm, steady pressure. Written aftercare instructions cover what to eat, what to avoid, how to rinse, and warning signs to watch for. Prescriptions for pain medication or antibiotics (when indicated) are provided before you leave. If IV sedation was used, a responsible adult must drive you home.
Following these instructions is the single most important thing you can do to heal quickly and avoid complications like dry socket.
Recovery after a simple extraction is typically fast. Surgical extractions take a bit longer but follow the same general pattern. Here is what most patients experience:
Rest and keep gauze in place. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using straws. Swelling and tenderness begin. Bleeding should slow within a few hours. Take pain medication as directed.
Swelling and bruising are typically at their peak, then begin to subside. Soft foods only. Begin gentle salt-water rinses. Most patients are comfortable enough to return to desk work by day 2 or 3.
Significant improvement for most patients. Softer solid foods tolerated. Sutures (if placed) begin to dissolve or are removed at a follow-up. Avoid strenuous exercise until cleared.
Soft tissue healed for most simple extractions. Return to normal diet as comfort allows. Bone remodeling continues for several weeks beneath the surface, this is normal and not felt.
Warning signs that need prompt attention: Worsening pain after day 3 (especially a deep, throbbing, radiating pain), fever above 100.4 degrees F, pus or foul taste from the socket, or difficulty swallowing/opening your mouth. These may indicate dry socket or infection. Call our office immediately, do not wait for your follow-up appointment.
After an extraction, a blood clot forms in the socket and acts as the foundation for healing. Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when that clot dislodges or dissolves prematurely, exposing the underlying bone and nerve endings directly to the oral environment. It typically appears 3 to 5 days after extraction and causes a distinct, deep aching or radiating pain that over-the-counter medication does not adequately control.
Dry socket is more common after lower molar extractions, in smokers, in patients using hormonal birth control, and when extractions were particularly difficult. It is not an infection, but it is extremely painful and requires prompt treatment.
Prevention: Avoid anything that creates suction in the mouth (straws, smoking, vaping) for at least 5 to 7 days. Do not rinse forcefully or spit for the first 24 hours. Follow a soft-food diet. Smoking is the single strongest modifiable risk factor, patients who smoke are 3 to 4 times more likely to develop dry socket.
Treatment: If dry socket develops, call us promptly. Treatment involves gently irrigating the socket, placing a medicated dressing that eliminates pain within minutes, and scheduling a follow-up to change the dressing as the socket heals. Most patients are completely comfortable within 24 to 48 hours of treatment.
Anxiety or complexity of the extraction should never prevent you from getting necessary care. Smile Science offers three levels of sedation, allowing us to match your comfort needs exactly.
Inhaled through a small nose mask, nitrous oxide produces a mild, pleasant relaxation and reduces anxiety. It does not put you to sleep. The effect wears off completely within minutes of removing the mask, so you can drive yourself home.
Best for: Mild dental anxiety, straightforward extractions, patients who need to drive themselves.
A prescription medication taken by mouth about an hour before your appointment produces a deeper level of relaxation than nitrous oxide. Most patients feel drowsy, remain cooperative, and retain little memory of the procedure. A driver is required, effects last several hours after discharge.
Best for: Moderate anxiety, multi-tooth extractions, patients who want less memory of the procedure.
Administered through an IV by our board-certified dentist anesthesiologist, IV sedation delivers deep, controllable relaxation. Patients are in a deeply relaxed state, have minimal to no memory of the procedure, and recover quickly once the medication is discontinued. Required for complex surgical cases and high-anxiety patients.
Best for: High anxiety, multiple surgical extractions, wisdom teeth removal, patients who want no memory of the procedure.
Extraction fees vary based on several clinical factors. A complete cost breakdown is provided at your consultation before any treatment begins, so there are no surprises on the day of your procedure.
Simple extractions of fully erupted teeth cost significantly less than surgical extractions of impacted or fractured teeth. Surgical procedures require more time, more anesthesia, and occasionally additional instruments or bone-handling techniques.
Removing multiple teeth at one appointment, for example, all four wisdom teeth at once, is usually the most cost-efficient approach since it involves a single anesthetic event and one recovery period. Fees are assessed per tooth.
Nitrous oxide adds a modest cost. Oral conscious sedation and IV sedation add more due to the medications, monitoring equipment, and the presence of our board-certified dentist anesthesiologist. We will outline sedation costs transparently at your consultation.
If you are planning a dental implant, adding a socket preservation graft at the time of extraction adds cost but typically reduces total treatment cost by simplifying the implant procedure later. We provide the cost of both options so you can make an informed decision.
Periapical X-rays are standard and typically covered by most dental insurance plans. CBCT cone-beam CT imaging, used for complex surgical cases, carries an additional fee but provides critical information that reduces procedural risk.
Most PPO plans cover a percentage of extraction fees, typically 50% to 80% of the allowed amount after your deductible. Our front desk verifies your benefits before treatment and provides a written breakdown of expected out-of-pocket costs. Financing through CareCredit, Cherry, and Sunbit is also available.
Leaving a gap in your smile causes neighboring teeth to drift, opposing teeth to over-erupt, and the jawbone beneath the socket to resorb over time. We discuss all replacement options at your extraction consultation so you can plan ahead.
A titanium post integrates directly with your jawbone and supports a permanent crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth. Implants preserve the bone at the extraction site and do not require altering adjacent teeth. They are the closest thing to a natural tooth that modern dentistry offers.
A fixed restoration that spans the gap using the adjacent teeth as anchors (abutments). The bridge is cemented in place and does not come out. No surgery is required, but the neighboring teeth must be permanently shaped down to support the bridge, and bone loss at the extraction site still occurs over time.
A removable appliance that clasps onto adjacent teeth to fill the gap. The least costly upfront option, but also the least functional and does not address bone loss at the extraction site. Works best as a temporary solution or when implants or a bridge are not feasible.
Timing matters: Placing a socket preservation bone graft at the time of extraction maintains the ridge volume needed for a future implant. If you wait 6 to 12 months after extraction without a graft, the available bone may be insufficient for straightforward implant placement without a separate, more complex grafting procedure. Plan ahead and talk to Dr. Dawson about your options before leaving your extraction appointment.
4.9 stars from 450+ Google reviews
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Smile Science Dental Spa, and I couldn't be more impressed with the level of care and service provided by the entire team. Dr. Dawson and Dr. Turke are both incredibly skilled and made me feel completely at ease throughout my procedures. Their professionalism, combined with their gentle approach, made me feel comfortable and well-informed every step of the way. I was especially impressed that I was able to get a same-day crown(apparently their first ever!), which exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t believe how quick and seamless the process was. It really saved me time and made the experience even more convenient. Cindiray and Angeles, the dental assistants, were equally wonderful. They were not only friendly and attentive but also thorough in explaining everything and made sure I was relaxed during each phase of my visit. Lastly, a big thank you to Litzy at the front desk, who greeted me with a smile and helped with scheduling and any questions I had. She made the entire check-in process a breeze. From start to finish, my experience at Smile Science Dental Spa was exceptional. I'll be returning for sure. I highly, highly, highly recommend them for anyone looking for high-quality dental care.
View Full Review on GoogleDusty
Honestly I’ve never been so happy to go to the dentist. I came in (late due to Lyft) and was still taken care of and treated with care. Even without insurance (kicking in within the next month) prices for an extraction on my infected tooth were more than reasonable. I was able to get more than expected done in the same visit. Dr. Dawson and his team made me feel so comfortable and taken care of. Won’t go anywhere else.
View Full Review on GoogleCherish B
I recently started as a patient after leaving our long-time family Dentist and couldn’t be happier! Marcela is AMAZING and a FANTASTIC hygienist!!!! 😃 Dr Dawson is great too! Every time I visit, they make me feel like family.
View Full Review on GoogleTJ Winzeler
Myself and my family had previously gone to Dr. Turk at another dental office that he worked at. He had relocated and we did not know where he had gone to until this week. Today I got in with Dr. Turk and he took the time to look at my x-rays carefully . I was having pain from a tooth and some other issues. The previous Dentist I went to that I saw just a few days earlier, he did not find any issues with my tooth which I had pain in. Dr. Turk identified infection and referred me to an endodontist. He is very gentle as a wonderful disposition and my self and my family are thrilled to be able to get back with him. The office is lovely, relaxing music, heat and massage chair.I have always been very nervous and some anxiety going to dentist as I have had bad reactions with the anesthesia. I am confident that Dr. Kirk will help me get through my next appointment just fine. “The staff are very kind and attentive. I am looking forward as I have quite a bit of work to be done, and I know I’m in good hands with Dr. Turk and his staff. Five stars!⭐️ Sherry
View Full Review on GoogleSherry Redmond
I recently moved to Arizona and had an issue with a tooth repair from 15 years back. Not knowing anyone here in my new home, I searched dentists close to me. I chose Smile Science much like pinning the tail on the donkey and my selection couldn't have been better! What a terrific staff! Dr. Turke was concerned the tooth would need to be extracted, but said he wanted to take a shot at saving it..and that's just what he did! After setting a temporary crown, I was on my way with an appointment to install the permanent crown in the following two weeks. That evening I received a call I've never received from a dentist. Dr. Turke had taken the time to follow up with me to make sure I wasn't in any discomfort..I was completely caught off guard by this kind of attention to detail and caring for my well being. The permanent crown is now in place, it fits and feels fantastic, the job and treatment are first class! Thank you, Dr. Turke and staff for taking in this stray and giving me a home dentist! I'd like to say that I'm just good at selecting blindly, but the truth is I am very lucky..and I'll take lucky over being good any day of the week! Thank you, again and Happiest of New Year's in 2026, Science Smile!!
View Full Review on GoogleEddy
Interactive wisdom tooth decision tool
Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out, and not every case is urgent. Walk through the same questions a dentist uses: current symptoms, eruption position, space, root formation, and risk to the teeth in front. Most patients finish in under two minutes.
Final decision requires an X-ray and clinical exam. Impaction angle, root formation, and proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve cannot be assessed without imaging. This tool helps you understand the clinical reasoning before your appointment.
Reference
Every wisdom tooth case lands in one of five categories. The sign pattern on the left is what a dentist looks for; the description and recommended next step are on the right. Only an in-person exam with a current panoramic X-ray can confirm your category.
Signs and criteria
Active spreading infection from a wisdom tooth is a dental emergency. Swelling that moves into the face or neck, jaw stiffness, or trouble swallowing require immediate treatment, call now or go to urgent care.
Learn more Wisdom tooth care at Smile Science →
Signs and criteria
Recurring pericoronitis (infection under the gum flap) or early damage to the adjacent tooth are indications for extraction within weeks. Waiting increases the risk of a more serious infection or permanent damage to the second molar.
Learn more Wisdom tooth care at Smile Science →
Signs and criteria
An impacted or difficult-to-clean wisdom tooth that is not causing acute symptoms but represents a predictable future problem. Extraction is simpler, heals faster, and has fewer complications the earlier it is done.
Learn more Wisdom tooth care at Smile Science →
Signs and criteria
Current symptoms do not point clearly to extraction, but a clinical exam and panoramic X-ray are needed to assess impaction angle, root formation, proximity to the nerve canal, and risk to adjacent teeth. Many patients discover an impaction they were unaware of.
Learn more Wisdom tooth care at Smile Science →
Signs and criteria
Fully erupted wisdom teeth with good position, no signs of gum disease, and no crowding risk may not need removal. Annual X-ray monitoring confirms they remain in a stable, maintainable state.
Learn more Wisdom tooth care at Smile Science →
The area is thoroughly numbed before anything begins. You will feel pressure, movement, and possibly some cracking sounds, but not sharp pain. If you feel any pain at any point during the procedure, tell Dr. Dawson immediately and more anesthetic will be administered. Post-procedure soreness is managed with over-the-counter medication (ibuprofen is very effective) or a short course of prescription pain medication for surgical cases. Most patients rate their post-extraction discomfort as mild to moderate.
A simple extraction typically takes 20 to 40 minutes from the time anesthetic is administered through discharge. Surgical extractions involving impacted teeth can take 45 to 90 minutes depending on root anatomy, tooth depth, and whether bone removal or tooth sectioning is required. If you are having multiple teeth extracted at the same appointment or receiving IV sedation, plan for additional time and arrange a driver.
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction socket dislodges or dissolves before the wound has healed, exposing the underlying bone and nerve to the oral environment. It causes a deep, radiating pain that typically develops 3 to 5 days after extraction. To prevent it: avoid straws and smoking for at least 5 to 7 days, do not rinse vigorously or spit forcefully for the first 24 hours, and keep to a soft diet. If you develop worsening pain after day 3, call us right away.
In some cases, yes, this is called an immediate implant placement. It is possible when there is sufficient bone volume, no active infection, and the socket geometry is appropriate. More commonly, socket preservation bone grafting is placed at extraction, followed by implant placement 3 to 4 months later once bone volume is fully restored. Dr. Dawson will evaluate whether you are a candidate for immediate placement at your consultation and walk you through both pathways so you can make an informed decision.
If a socket preservation bone graft was placed, implant placement typically occurs 3 to 4 months later, after the graft has integrated and bone density has been restored. Without a graft, most dentists recommend waiting 4 to 6 months for natural bone healing before implant placement, though the ridge will have lost some volume during that time. The earlier you plan for an implant, the more bone you will have available to work with.
For the first 24 to 48 hours, stick to soft, cool foods: yogurt, applesauce, ice cream (without chunks), smoothies (no straw), mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and similar foods that require minimal chewing. Avoid anything hot, spicy, crunchy, hard, or chewy. By day 3 to 5 most patients tolerate softer solid foods. Return to a normal diet gradually as comfort allows, typically within 1 to 2 weeks for simple extractions and 2 to 4 weeks for surgical cases.
Most dental PPO insurance plans cover extractions as a basic or major service, typically at 50% to 80% of the allowed fee after your annual deductible is met. Simple extractions are generally covered at a higher rate than surgical extractions. Our front desk verifies your specific benefits before treatment so you know your exact out-of-pocket cost in advance. We also offer financing through CareCredit, Cherry, and Sunbit for patients without insurance or with high cost-sharing responsibilities.
Within the first year after extraction, the jawbone at the extraction site begins to resorb, the body reabsorbs bone that is no longer needed to anchor a tooth. Adjacent teeth drift into the gap, and the tooth above (or below) the extraction site may begin to over-erupt. Over several years, these changes alter your bite and facial structure, make future restoration more complex, and can accelerate bone loss throughout the jaw. Replacing a missing tooth promptly, ideally with an implant, is the best way to protect your long-term oral health.
Contact Smile Science Dental Spa in Glendale, AZ to schedule an extraction consultation with Dr. Dawson. We will review your imaging, explain all options, discuss sedation, and develop a plan for replacing the tooth, so you can move forward with confidence.
