Tooth Extractions in Chillicothe, Ohio
At Chillicothe Family Dental, we do everything we can to preserve your natural teeth. However, when a tooth is too damaged, infected, or misaligned to be saved, an extraction may be the healthiest option for your smile. Whether you need a single tooth removed or a more complex procedure, our team provides gentle, safe care—with IV moderate sedation available for patients who need extra comfort.
Sedation Options for Comfortable Care
We understand extractions can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer multiple levels of comfort:
- Local anesthesia for pain-free treatment
- Oral sedation for mild to moderate relaxation
- IV moderate sedation, provided by Dr. Kellie Schwalbach (a general dentist and IV sedation provider), for surgical, wisdom tooth, and full-mouth extractions
This flexibility allows us to tailor your care to your needs and comfort level.
Types of Extractions & Related Services
Surgical Extractions
Some teeth cannot be removed with a simple extraction and require a surgical approach—for example, impacted teeth or those firmly anchored in the jaw. With careful technique and sedation options, we ensure patients remain comfortable throughout treatment.
Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often become impacted, misaligned, or painful. We provide wisdom tooth extractions in Chillicothe, Ohio, with the option of IV sedation for patients who want a deeper level of comfort.
Full-Mouth Extractions
In some cases, multiple or all teeth need to be removed—often in preparation for complete dentures. Full-mouth extractions are carefully planned to restore health and function, and IV sedation is frequently recommended for patient comfort.
Tori Removal
Tori are harmless bony growths that may interfere with dentures, cause discomfort, or make oral hygiene difficult. We offer tori removal in Chillicothe as part of our oral surgery-related extraction services.
Alveoplasty (Bone Smoothing)
After extractions, some patients benefit from reshaping the jawbone (alveoplasty) to prepare for dentures or improve comfort. This procedure smooths uneven bone ridges for a more stable fit.
Frenectomies
A frenectomy removes or modifies the small fold of tissue under the tongue or upper lip. It may be recommended for:
- Infants with tongue-tie or lip-tie
- Patients with a gap between teeth caused by a tight frenum
- Improving denture comfort
Frenectomies can be completed under local anesthesia or IV sedation if needed.
Why Might a Tooth Need to Be Extracted?
Teeth may need to be removed for a variety of reasons, including:
- Severe decay or infection
- Advanced periodontal (gum) disease
- Teeth that are broken beyond repair
- Poor positioning, such as impacted teeth
- Preparation for orthodontics, dentures, or implants
When an extraction is recommended, we also discuss replacement options—such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures—to protect your bite, appearance, and long-term health.
Complete Dentures After Extractions
For patients undergoing full-mouth extractions, we often recommend complete dentures to restore function and appearance. In some cases, immediate dentures can be placed the same day as extractions, allowing you to leave with a new smile right away.
The Extraction Process
- Numbing the Area – Local anesthesia numbs the tooth, gums, and jawbone.
- Tooth Loosening – The tooth is gently rocked back and forth to widen the socket.
- Sectioning (if needed) – Some teeth are sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.
- Comfort Throughout – You may feel pressure but should not feel pain. Please let us know if you experience discomfort at any point.
Aftercare and Recovery
Proper care after your extraction ensures faster healing and reduces complications:
- Bite on gauze for 30–45 minutes to form a clot
- Avoid smoking, straws, or vigorous rinsing for 72 hours
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling during the first 24–48 hours
- Eat soft foods and stay hydrated
- Resume gentle brushing and flossing after 24 hours
Most patients feel better within a few days, though complete healing may take 1–2 weeks. If you notice heavy bleeding, persistent swelling, or severe pain, call our office immediately.
Replacing Extracted Teeth
Losing a tooth can affect chewing, speaking, and jaw alignment. To prevent long-term issues, we may recommend:
- Dental implants
- Fixed bridges
- Complete dentures (with or without preparatory alveoplasty)
Tooth Extraction & Oral Surgery FAQs
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
No. With local anesthesia and sedation options, your procedure will be comfortable and pain-free.
Can I be sedated for extractions?
Yes. Dr. Kellie Schwalbach, a general dentist and IV moderate sedation provider, can provide IV sedation for surgical, wisdom tooth, and full-mouth extractions.
How long is recovery?
Most patients feel well within 2–3 days, though complete healing may take 1–2 weeks.
Can I get dentures the same day as extractions?
In many cases, yes. Immediate dentures can be placed the same day as extractions, though adjustments are often required as healing progresses.
Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removed
- Pain or pressure in the back of your mouth
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums around wisdom teeth
- Jaw stiffness or difficulty opening fully
- Repeated infections or gum irritation
- Cysts or damage seen on X-rays
- Shifting or crowding of nearby teeth
- Difficulty cleaning wisdom teeth
Ready to Schedule Your Visit?
Join the many families in Chillicothe who trust us with their dental care. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.