Tooth Extraction
in Calgary
Gentle tooth removal when a tooth can't be saved, with a clear plan for what comes next.
About Tooth Extraction
Our goal is always to save your natural teeth. Sometimes, though, a tooth is too damaged, infected or crowded to keep, and removing it is the healthiest choice. A tooth extraction takes out the tooth so your mouth can heal and any pain or infection can resolve.
If you need a tooth extraction in SW Calgary, West 17th Avenue Dental Care provides gentle extractions as part of our general dentistry services. We explain each step, make sure you are comfortable and talk through replacement options so you leave with a plan.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
- A tooth is badly decayed or broken below the gumline and cannot be repaired.
- An infection has damaged the tooth and a Root Canal Treatment is not possible.
- Advanced gum disease has loosened the tooth.
- Crowding means a tooth needs to be removed before orthodontic treatment.
- A wisdom tooth is impacted or causing pain. See Wisdom Teeth Removal.
- A tooth has been damaged by an injury. For urgent cases, see our Emergency Dentist page.
Simple and Surgical Extractions
A simple extraction removes a tooth that is visible above the gumline. Your dentist loosens the tooth and removes it with forceps. A surgical extraction is used when a tooth is broken at the gumline or has not fully come in, and it may involve a small incision in the gum. Your dentist will explain which type you need after an exam and X-rays.
Before Your Extraction
- Tell us about your health history, all medications (including blood thinners) and any allergies. Do not stop a prescribed medication unless your dentist or doctor tells you to.
- Unless we tell you otherwise, have a light meal beforehand.
- Wear comfortable clothing and avoid smoking before your appointment.
- Take any medication your dentist has prescribed as directed.
- If you feel anxious, ask about Sedation Dentistry. If you choose oral sedation, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home.
- Plan to rest for the remainder of the day, and have soft foods ready at home.
What Happens During an Extraction
Exam and X-ray. Your dentist reviews the tooth and explains the plan.
Anaesthesia. We numb the area thoroughly, so you should feel pressure but not pain.
Removal. Your dentist gently removes the tooth.
Aftercare. We place gauze, check that bleeding is controlled and review written aftercare instructions with you.
Aftercare and Recovery
- Bite gently on the gauze for the time your dentist advises to help a blood clot form, and do not disturb the clot.
- Avoid rinsing hard, spitting, drinking through a straw and smoking for the first day or as your dentist advises.
- Eat soft, cool foods such as yoghurt, soup and mashed potatoes, and chew on the opposite side.
- Use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling and take pain relievers as directed on the label.
- Keep brushing your other teeth, and avoid the extraction site at first. Follow the rinsing instructions your dentist gives you.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for the first day or two.
- Call us if pain gets worse after a few days, if bleeding does not stop or if you have a fever or swelling that is getting worse.
Replacing an Extracted Tooth
A gap can cause neighbouring teeth to shift and make chewing harder. Your dentist can discuss replacement options with you, including Dental Implants, a bridge through our Crowns and Bridges service, or Dentures.
Why Choose West 17th Avenue Dental Care
- More than 30 years serving Calgary families, with a clinic on 17th Avenue SW.
- A 4.9 Google rating from more than 200 reviews.
- Same-day emergency appointments reserved every day.
- A multilingual team that speaks English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.
- Direct billing to most major insurance plans and the Canadian Dental Care Plan accepted.
- Open six days a week, with a free parking lot north of the building, accessible from 15th Street SW.
Cost of Tooth Extraction
The cost of a tooth extraction depends on whether it is simple or surgical and on how many teeth are involved. We explain the cost before treatment begins, bill most major insurance plans directly and offer 0% interest financing. You can read more in our Financial Options section or call (403) 244-1124 for an estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
We numb the area before we begin, so you should feel pressure but no pain. Some soreness afterwards is normal and usually settles within a few days with the pain relief your dentist recommends.
What is the difference between a simple and a surgical extraction?
A simple extraction removes a tooth that can be seen above the gumline. A surgical extraction is used for teeth that are broken off at the gumline or have not fully come in, and it may involve a small cut in the gum.
What should I eat after a tooth extraction?
Stick to soft, cool foods such as yoghurt, smoothies eaten with a spoon, soup and mashed potatoes for the first day or two. Avoid hot, crunchy or spicy foods and chew on the opposite side.
What is dry socket and how can I avoid it?
Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the socket is lost before the area heals, which can cause throbbing pain a few days later. You can lower the risk by not smoking, not drinking through a straw and not rinsing or spitting hard. Call us if you think you have it.
How much does a tooth extraction cost in Calgary?
The cost depends on the type of extraction and the number of teeth involved. Call (403) 244-1124 for an estimate. We bill most major insurance plans directly and offer 0% interest financing.
Book Your Appointment
Ready for a Healthier Smile? New patients welcome, direct billing and 0% financing available. Call us at (403) 244-1124 or book online.