Emergency Extractions

Emergency Tooth Extractions in Ivy, VA

When a tooth cannot be saved, a timely extraction prevents infection from spreading, relieves severe pain, and protects the rest of your smile. Dr. Michelle Kim at Willis & Associates Family Dentistry Ivy – Charlottesville performs gentle emergency extractions with your comfort and wellbeing as the top priority.

When Is an Emergency Extraction Necessary?

Dr. Kim always tries to save natural teeth first. However, extraction becomes the best course of action when:

• An infection or abscess is too severe to resolve with root canal therapy
• A tooth is broken below the gumline and cannot support a restoration
• Advanced gum disease has caused significant bone loss around the tooth
• A cracked tooth has split into the root structure
• An impacted wisdom tooth is causing pain, infection, or damage to neighboring teeth

What to Expect During an Emergency Extraction

Dr. Kim begins by thoroughly numbing the area with local anesthetic. For patients with anxiety, sedation options are available to ensure a calm, comfortable experience. Once the area is completely numb, Dr. Kim uses careful, controlled techniques to loosen and remove the tooth as gently as possible.

Simple extractions, where the tooth is visible above the gumline, typically take just a few minutes. Surgical extractions, needed for broken or impacted teeth, require a bit more time but are performed with the same gentle approach. Dr. Kim explains every step before and during the procedure so you always know what is happening.

After Your Extraction

Proper aftercare is essential for smooth healing. Dr. Kim provides detailed written instructions, but here are the key points:

• Bite gently on gauze for 30 to 45 minutes to control bleeding
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for the first 24 hours
• Eat soft foods and avoid using a straw for the first few days
• Do not smoke, as this significantly delays healing
• Take prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed
• Rinse gently with warm salt water starting the day after extraction

Most patients feel significantly better within two to three days. Dr. Kim schedules a follow-up as needed to ensure healing is progressing well.

Replacing the Extracted Tooth

Once healing is complete, Dr. Kim will discuss options for replacing the missing tooth if it was in a visible or functional area. Dental implants, bridges, and partial dentures are all available at our Ivy Road office. Replacing a missing tooth prevents neighboring teeth from shifting and maintains proper bite alignment.

We Are Here When You Need Us

Dental emergencies are stressful, and we understand the urgency. If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, swelling, or a dental injury in Ivy or the Charlottesville area, call us right away. We make every effort to see emergency patients the same day.