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Tooth extraction in Des Moines, IA - Merle Hay

Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary to maintain optimal oral health. Whether it's due to severe decay, infection, overcrowding, or impacted wisdom teeth, ​removing problematic teeth can prevent further complications and alleviate pain. At Aspen Dental, our experienced team uses advanced techniques to ensure a ​smooth and comfortable extraction process, ultimately helping you achieve a healthier, more comfortable smile.

Our popular tooth extraction services

Pre-prosthetic extraction

Pre-prosthetic extraction is a necessary step before receiving dentures. This procedure involves removing teeth that cannot be restored and preparing the mouth ​for the placement of dentures. By extracting problematic teeth, we ensure a comfortable and secure fit for your new dentures, enhancing both function and appearance.


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Wisdom tooth extraction

Wisdom tooth extraction is often necessary to prevent future dental issues and maintain oral health. Impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth can cause pain, ​infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. Removing these problematic teeth helps ensure a healthy and pain-free smile.


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Emergency tooth extraction

Emergency tooth extraction is required when a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or causing unbearable pain. Immediate removal can alleviate ​discomfort and prevent further complications, ensuring swift relief and protection of your overall oral health.

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Types of tooth extractions

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Simple extraction

Simple extractions are typically quick, minimally invasive, and often used for teeth that are damaged, decayed, or loose due to gum disease. ​This type of extraction, is typically done by a general dentist, and helps prevent further dental issues and promotes overall oral health.

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Surgical extraction

Surgical tooth extractions are necessary when teeth are not easily accessible, such as when they are impacted, broken below the gum line, ​or require removal of bone and tissue. Surgical extractions are typically performed by an oral surgeon and may require stitches to aid in healing. ​These extractions are often used for wisdom teeth and other complex cases, ensuring the patient's oral health is maintained effectively.

Your tooth extraction FAQs answered

After a tooth extraction, it's best to stick to soft and easy-to-eat foods. Opt for items like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and broths. Avoiding hot, spicy and crunchy foods is recommended to promote healing. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as you heal.

At Aspen Dental, patients on average will pay $179 for a tooth extraction¹. This may depend on the complexity of your extraction.

¹Price displayed is average price paid by patients nationwide for selected service.

It's crucial not to attempt pulling out a tooth on your own, as this can lead to severe complications and infections. Always seek professional dental care for tooth extractions. Dentists use sterile tools and techniques to safely remove teeth, ensuring minimal pain and proper healing.

Healing time after a tooth extraction typically takes about one to two weeks. The initial swelling and discomfort usually subside within a few days. Following your dentist's aftercare instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene can help speed up the healing process.

The duration of a tooth extraction procedure depends on the complexity of the case. A simple extraction can take about 20 to 40 minutes, while surgical extractions may take longer, around 45 minutes to an hour or more. Your dentist will provide a more accurate time estimate during your consultation.

Most dentists recommend waiting 24 hours after your tooth extraction to use a straw.

It’s best to avoid dairy while your tooth extraction is healing, as the bacteria that is in dairy products can alter the healing period or give way to infection.

Typically, you can take your gauze off once the bleeding is done. This may take anywhere from a few hours after the initial extraction. t’s best practice to follow the advice of your doctor regarding your healing time.

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Aspen Dental is in Des Moines, Iowa

Our dentists in Des Moines help much of the surrounding communities, including Avon and Scotch Ridge, with aligning teeth to their people’s lifestyles.

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Our team of professionals apply the most innovative dental health practices to help their visitors meet any dental need they need solutions for. If you’re searching for a brand-new look, Aspen Dental offers cost-effective and masterfully crafted dentures and dental implants near Des Moines. We also offer guests comprehensive general dentistry procedures like teeth whitening and cleaning, and emergency dental care solutions in Des Moines to provide care in the most dire of situations.

Navigating to Aspen Dental in Des Moines, Iowa (Merle Hay): Landmarks and Directions

Our office is conveniently located seconds from Southeast 14th Street, making it accessible from anywhere in the Des Moines area. You can take I-235 eastbound and get off at exit 9. Turn right to get onto 14th Street, and drive for about four miles. You will pass Bank of the West and Jimmy John’s on your right. Just after Jimmy John’s, you will see the Aspen Dental sign from the road. Turn right at the intersection, followed by two more right turns, and you will be directly in front of our office—if you reach The Home Depot, you’ve gone too far and will need to turn around. Our office is between Verizon and Jimmy John’s.

From Scotch Ridge, you can head North on US-69, which will turn into 14th Street. Just after Walmart, turn left at the intersection to enter the parking lot. If you reach Wendy’s, you’ve gone too far.

Interested in dental work? Schedule an appointment or come visit us today!

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