Extraction
A typical case, in 6 steps over 1 visit. Typically back to routine in 48 to 72 hours; the jawbone typically takes several weeks to heal, up to 4 months for a molar. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Extraction · Visit 1
Numbing
A local anesthetic numbs the tooth and the gum around it.
Source: clevelandclinic.org
Steps in a typical case
Numbing
A local anesthetic numbs the tooth and the gum around it.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Loosening and removing the tooth
Special dental instruments gently loosen the tooth and lift it out of its socket. Removing one tooth usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Surgical removal, when needed
If the tooth is badly decayed or broken at the gum line, a small cut in the gum may be needed to reach it. Sometimes the tooth is divided into sections and removed in pieces.
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Cleaning the socket
The empty socket is cleaned and disinfected. In some cases a bone graft is placed in the socket.
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Stitches and gauze
Stitches may be placed, though not everyone needs them. Gently biting on folded gauze for about 15 minutes helps control bleeding.
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Healing
A blood clot forms in the socket and protects the bone and nerves. Most people return to routine activities in 48 to 72 hours, while the jawbone takes several weeks or longer to heal fully.
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Typical trade-offs
| Visits | Typically 30 to 60 minutes to remove one tooth, longer for several teeth. Source 1 |
|---|---|
| Time to final result | Typically back to routine in 48 to 72 hours; the jawbone typically takes several weeks to heal, up to 4 months for a molar. Source 1 |
| How long it lasts | Lifespan does not apply; when an implant follows, there is typically a wait of a few months while the socket heals. Source 1 |
| Upkeep | Typical upkeep while healing: gentle rinses 2 to 3 times a day and no brushing on the site until the dentist says it is safe. Source 1 |
Figures for a typical case from the sources below. A dentist can say how a given case differs.
Questions to ask your dentist
- The typical case takes one visit. Would mine, and how long would it take?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long does it usually last in a case like mine, and what upkeep will it need?
- Will it hurt, and what can I eat or do while it heals?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses D7140, D7210).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- Tooth extraction. Cleveland Clinic. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22120-tooth-extraction. Accessed November 6, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.0. Billing codes for the typical case: D7140, D7210.