Tooth Extraction
Scarborough

Does a tooth extraction hurt?

No. Your tooth and the surrounding gum are fully numbed with local anesthetic before anything begins, so you feel pressure and movement but not pain. If you feel anxious about dental visits, AF Dental also offers nitrous (laughing gas) and oral sedation to help you stay relaxed. Some soreness for a few days afterward is normal, and your dentist will explain how to manage it comfortably.

How long does it take to heal after a tooth extraction?

The gum tissue usually closes over within one to two weeks, while the bone underneath keeps filling in for several weeks after that. Most people are back to normal routines within a couple of days as long as they follow the aftercare instructions. Call the clinic promptly if pain gets worse after day two or three instead of improving, as that can be a sign of dry socket, which is easily treated when caught early.

What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

Stick to soft, cool or lukewarm foods for the first day or two — things like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs and smoothies eaten with a spoon. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy or seedy foods, and do not drink through a straw for several days, because the suction can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing. You can return to normal meals gradually as comfort allows.

Do I need to replace an extracted tooth?

It depends on which tooth it is. A missing back molar that never shows may be fine to leave, but gaps in visible areas — or any gap that lets neighbouring teeth drift — are usually worth replacing. Your options include a dental implant, a bridge or a partial denture, and the right choice depends on the location, your oral health and your preferences. This is a great topic to discuss at your consultation so you can plan before the extraction if possible.

Is extraction always the best option, or can the tooth be saved?

Extraction is a last resort, not a first choice. If a tooth can be predictably saved with a root canal and crown, or repaired with a filling, that is usually the better long-term option. Extraction becomes the healthiest choice when a tooth is too damaged by decay, cracks or infection, or when crowding requires it. Be sure to tell your dentist about blood thinners, medical conditions or past complications so your treatment plan is safe for you.

Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) cover tooth extractions?

Extractions are among the treatments the CDCP may cover for eligible patients, but coverage is never automatic — eligibility must be assessed first, and any coverage follows the CDCP fee guide rather than the full fee. AF Dental direct-bills the CDCP for eligible treatments. Call the Scarborough clinic or book a consultation and the team will help confirm what applies in your specific case and give you an exact quote.

Comprehensive dental solutions in Scarborough: From preventative cleanings and exams to complex restorative surgery and dental implants. Trust AF Dental for specialized, comfortable family dentistry.