Extractions & Impacted Teeth
Gentle Tooth Extractions in Falls Church, VA
Needing tooth extractions in Falls Church, VA can feel stressful, but it doesn't have to be. Whether your general dentist referred you or you found us on your own after noticing a cracked or aching tooth, our team at Merrifield Oral Surgery is ready to help. Our board-certified oral surgeons take a calm, thorough approach to every extraction, and we welcome new patients from Falls Church, Tysons, Fairfax, and the surrounding area. We accept most dental insurance plans, and our team includes a Spanish-speaking surgeon so more families feel comfortable asking questions in the language they know best.
Call (703) 639-0027for a consultation and personalized care from the start.
Benefits of Choosing Merrifield Oral Surgery for Tooth Extractions
Our surgeons, including Dr. Margaret K. Pham are board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons with training that goes beyond general dentistry. That extra training matters when a tooth extraction turns out to be more complicated than it first appears, such as a tooth broken below the gumline or roots that curve in unexpected directions.
Patients tell us they feel put at ease by our calm, unhurried style. We take time to explain what's happening, answer questions, and make sure you understand your options before any procedure begins. After your extraction, our staff follows up with a phone call to check how you're healing and make sure you have what you need for a smooth recovery.
We also use 3D imaging to plan extractions with more precision, which helps our surgeons anticipate any challenges before they happen. If you're looking into a full range of care, our Extractions & Impacted Teeth page covers everything from routine extractions to wisdom teeth and impacted tooth care.
What to Expect: Simple and Surgical Tooth Extractions
Not every tooth extraction is the same, and the right approach depends on the condition of your tooth and its roots. Our surgeons will examine your tooth, review any X-rays from your dentist, and explain whether you need a simple or surgical extraction before moving forward.
Simple Tooth Extraction in Falls Church, VA
A simple tooth extraction is used for a tooth that has fully come through the gum and is visible in your mouth. After numbing the area with local anesthetic, your surgeon gently loosens the tooth and removes it. Most patients are in and out of the chair in well under an hour, and many describe the visit as far calmer than they expected.
Surgical Tooth Extraction for Northern Virginia Patients
A surgical tooth extraction is needed when a tooth has broken at the gumline, hasn't fully erupted, or has roots that are curved or fused to the jawbone. This approach is also common for extractions related to wisdom teeth removal or before certain denture and implant procedures. Your surgeon may recommend local anesthesia, IV sedation, or a combination, depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the case. If you're preparing for dentures, we may also talk with you about pre-prosthetic surgery to help your mouth heal into the best possible shape for a new smile.
to talk with our team about which type of extraction fits your situation.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions
How do I know if I need a simple or surgical extraction?
Your surgeon will look at how much of the tooth is visible above the gumline and review any X-rays showing the root shape and position. A tooth that has fully erupted usually needs only a simple extraction, while a broken, impacted, or curved-root tooth typically calls for a surgical approach. We'll walk you through the reasoning during your exam so you know what to expect.
What is recovery like after a tooth extraction?
Most patients notice mild swelling and soreness for a few days, which usually improves with rest, ice, and any medication your surgeon recommends. Following our post-op instructions closely helps the healing process go smoothly. Our team also calls to check on you after your procedure, so you're never left guessing about what's normal.
Will my insurance cover a tooth extraction?
Many dental insurance plans include coverage for medically necessary extractions, though the amount depends on your specific plan. Our front desk team can help verify your benefits before your visit, and our insurance and financing page has more details on how we work with patients on cost.
Your Comfortable Path to a Healthier Smile Starts Here
Let's talk about your extraction options and get you feeling at ease from the very first call.