Where Families in Green Lake Come to Smile
Tooth Extractions in Green Lake, Seattle
Nobody wakes up excited about a tooth extraction. But here’s the thing. Sometimes pulling a tooth is the smartest move you can make for your smile. When a tooth can’t be saved, removing it may be the best solution to protect your oral health and avert bigger problems down the line.
At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Ellison and her team turn what sounds scary into something manageable and comfortable. We take the time to explain exactly what’s happening, answer every question, and make sure you feel confident about your treatment. With years of experience and a focus on gentle care, we’ll guide you through the process from start to finish.
When Does a
Tooth Need to Come Out?
We don’t pull teeth for fun. Dr. Ellison will always try to save a tooth first. But sometimes extraction is the right call. Here’s when that happens:
Severe Decay
Severe decay can eat away at a tooth until there’s not enough left to restore. If bacteria from that decay spreads to your gums or jawbone, removal prevents the infection from worsening.
Trauma
Broken teeth from trauma or accidents sometimes crack below the gum line, which makes them impossible to fix. Our teeth work really hard over our lifetime and sometimes teeth can fracture severely even without a traumatic incident.
Crowding
Crowding is also an issue. If your teeth are packed too tightly, removing one or two can create space for orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign, to work properly. Sometimes teeth just don’t grow in the right direction, and that causes ongoing problems.
Gum Disease
Advanced gum disease can loosen teeth to the extent that they can’t be saved. Whatever the reason, we’ll explain why extraction makes sense and what your options are for replacing the tooth afterward.
What Happens During the Procedure
Tooth extractions are straightforward. We start by numbing the area completely so you don’t feel any pain. Dr. Ellison uses local anesthesia, and if you’re nervous, we can discuss sedation options to keep you relaxed.
Once you’re numb, Dr. Ellison loosens the tooth using special instruments. Simple extractions involve gently rocking the tooth until it comes free. If the tooth is broken or hasn’t fully erupted, a surgical extraction might be needed. That means making a small incision in your gum to access the tooth. It sounds intense, but you won’t feel it.
After the tooth is out, we clean the socket and place gauze to control bleeding. You’ll bite down on it for a bit to help a blood clot form. That clot is vital because it protects the area while you heal. We’ll give you detailed aftercare instructions before you leave.
We’ll also discuss replacement options if needed—such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures—so you have a clear path forward.
Taking Care of Yourself After
The first 24 hours are the most important. Keep gauze on the extraction site and change it as needed. Avoid rinsing your mouth or forcefully spitting, as this can dislodge the blood clot. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Skip the straws. The suction can mess with healing.
Swelling and mild discomfort are normal. Ice packs help with swelling, and over-the-counter pain relievers usually handle the rest. If Dr. Ellison prescribes antibiotics, take them as directed to prevent infection. By the second or third day, you should feel a lot better.
Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol while you heal. Both slow down the process and increase your risk of complications. Gently brush your teeth, but stay away from the extraction site for a few days. After about a week, the area should be mostly healed, and you can resume your normal routine
Replacing Your Tooth
Just because a tooth is gone doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a gap. Dr. Ellison can talk through replacement options with you. Dental implants are the gold standard. They act like natural tooth roots and support a crown that looks and functions like the real thing. Bridges are another solution. They use the teeth on either side of the gap to hold a false tooth in place.
Dentures work well if you’re missing multiple teeth. Partial dentures fill in gaps while full dentures replace an entire arch. If the tooth being extracted is a wisdom tooth or one that doesn’t affect your bite, you might not need a replacement at all. We’ll figure out what makes sense for your smile and your budget.
Why Choose Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry
You're not alone if you need a tooth extraction. Millions of Americans undergo this common dental procedure each year, and Dr. Ellison has the experience to make yours as smooth as possible. She's trained with Spear and Seattle Study Clubs to stay up to date on the latest techniques. Our office focuses on making you comfortable, whether that means explaining every step or offering sedation to ease your nerves. We're located right in Green Lake, which makes it easy to swing by for your appointment and get back to your day. Our team handles everything from routine cleanings and exams to more involved procedures, so you're in good hands no matter what you need.
Get the Care You Need at Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry
If you think you need a tooth extraction, don’t put it off. The longer you wait, the more complicated things can get. Tooth pain, infections, and damage to surrounding teeth only get worse with time. Taking action now protects your oral health and prevents more extensive treatment later.
Our Green Lake location makes it convenient to get the care you need without disrupting your day. We work with most major dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to fit your budget. Whether you’re managing an emergency or planning ahead for a necessary extraction, Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We’ll take care of you and your smile.
Schedule Your Tooth Extraction Consultation Today
Whether you're in pain or just unsure about your next step, we're here to help. Schedule a consultation with Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry and get the clarity and care you need—in a space that always puts your comfort first.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions
Will the extraction hurt?
What can I eat after an extraction?
Do I have to replace a missing tooth?
Not always, but we’ll help you understand the pros and cons. Missing teeth can affect your bite, speech, and long-term oral health—so we’ll walk you through your options.