Why go to a periodontist for a tooth extraction or implant?

When a tooth needs to be removed and replaced with an implant, seeing a periodontist offers important benefits.

Periodontists are specialists in gums, bone, and implants.
They receive several additional years of advanced training beyond dental school, focused specifically on tooth extractions, bone preservation, and dental implant placement. This expertise is especially valuable when the bone or gums need careful management.

They focus on long-term success, not just the extraction.
A periodontist doesn’t simply remove the tooth—they plan ahead for healing and implant placement. This includes preserving bone, managing the gums, and creating the best foundation so the implant is stable, functional, and natural-looking.

Advanced techniques and technology improve comfort and outcomes.
Periodontists use specialized tools, imaging, and techniques that can make procedures more precise, comfortable, and predictable. This often means smoother healing and fewer complications.

Ideal for complex or high-risk cases.
If there is infection, bone loss, gum disease, or a medically complex situation, a periodontist is especially well-equipped to handle it safely and effectively.

One coordinated plan for extraction and implant care.
Seeing a periodontist allows the extraction, healing, and implant placement to be managed as one carefully planned process—helping ensure the best possible long-term result.

In short, a periodontist’s specialized training helps protect your oral health and gives your implant the strongest chance for long-term success, comfort, and appearance.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY OF YOUR EXTRACTION

We’re delighted you’ve chosen us for your tooth extraction. When you arrive, our friendly team will welcome you and guide you through check‑in. We'll verify any updates to your health history, medications, and insurance, complete your consent forms, process payment, and handle any prescriptions you may need. We’ll also book your follow‑up visit to monitor your healing and ensure everything is progressing smoothly.

Once everything is in order, a team member will escort you to the surgical suite. We’ll ensure you’re comfortable in the chair and offer you a blanket and sunglasses. Feel free to bring your headphones. Before beginning, we’ll review the planned procedure once more and answer any final questions. Dr. Jensen will administer a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. If you require additional relaxation, available sedation options can be discussed before your appointment. Please see IV sedation page. You may sense pressure during the procedure, but you should not experience any pain.

After the tooth has been removed and sutures placed, we’ll clean the site and place a piece of gauze to help control bleeding and encourage clot formation. You’ll be asked to bite down gently on the gauze to support proper healing. We’ll give you your pain medication and review post‑operative care with you verbally, and you’ll also receive printed instructions to take home.

Once you’re home, be sure to rest and avoid strenuous activity for at least the first 24 hours. It’s normal to experience mild bleeding, swelling, or tenderness—and these symptoms typically ease within a few days. Applying an ice pack to your cheek in intervals of about 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off can help reduce both swelling and discomfort for the first day.

Most people begin to feel much better within a few days and can return to their usual routine within two or three days. It’s common for discomfort to peak around day three. While you might feel better quickly, full healing takes longer—your jawbone needs several weeks to recover and is typically ready for implant placement about three to four months after the extraction. Though complications are rare, if you experience persistent bleeding, severe pain, increasing swelling, fever, or any signs of infection, please contact us right away.

Above all, we are here to support you every step of the way—from your arrival and procedure through recovery and follow‑up care.