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Northwest Oral Surgeons

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Location

Located inside the St. Luke’s building near the local urgent care facility.

Located inside the St. Luke’s building near the urgent care facility.

636-978-6967

Tooth Extractions in O’Fallon, MO

When a tooth is too damaged, infected, impacted, or difficult to restore, removing it can relieve the immediate problem and protect the surrounding area. The right approach depends on the tooth’s position, the condition of the bone and gum tissue, and the plan for replacing the tooth, if replacement is needed.
Dr. Maryann L. Udy reviews your referral and imaging, examines the area, and explains whether a simple or surgical extraction is expected. Before treatment, our team walks you through the anesthesia plan, preparation steps, and recovery instructions so you know what to expect.
636-978-6967
Man experiencing dental pain and seeking an oral surgery evaluation

When Is Tooth Extraction Recommended?

Your dentist may recommend extraction when a tooth cannot be predictably repaired or when keeping it would interfere with another treatment. Common reasons include extensive decay, a fracture below the gumline, advanced infection, severe periodontal damage, crowding, an impacted tooth, or an unsuccessful extraction attempt.

Removal is not based on symptoms alone. Dr. Udy considers the diagnosis, available imaging, nearby teeth and anatomy, your health history, and the long-term dental plan before recommending treatment.

Simple and Surgical Tooth Extractions

A simple extraction usually involves a tooth that is visible above the gumline and accessible with standard instruments. A surgical extraction may be necessary when a tooth is broken, impacted, below the gumline, or surrounded by bone that limits access.
For a surgical extraction, Dr. Udy may make a small opening in the gum tissue or divide the tooth into sections so it can be removed with less disruption to the surrounding area. She will explain the expected approach before treatment.
636-978-6967

Planning for the Area After Tooth Extraction

If the tooth will be replaced, planning should begin before it is removed whenever possible. Your restorative dentist and Dr. Udy may coordinate an implant, bridge, partial denture, orthodontic treatment, or another next step.

When a dental implant is being considered, socket preservation or another bone-grafting procedure may help maintain or rebuild the site. Grafting is not necessary after every extraction. Dr. Udy will explain whether it supports your restorative plan and whether it should be completed at the time of removal or later.

Preparing for Treatment and Recovery

Bring your referral, available X-rays, and a current medication list to the consultation. Tell us about allergies, medical conditions, recent changes in your health, and any prior difficulty with anesthesia. If another provider has attempted to remove the tooth, share what happened and bring any updated imaging.

Your instructions for eating, drinking, medications, transportation, and activity will be based on the procedure and anesthesia plan. After treatment, follow the written instructions from our office and call us with questions about bleeding, swelling, pain, medication, or healing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions

Many patients are referred by a dentist, orthodontist, or physician. Requirements can also vary by insurance plan. Call our office and we will confirm what records or referral information are needed.
Dr. Udy recommends an anesthesia option based on the procedure and your health history. She will review what to expect and how to prepare before surgery.
In some cases, extraction and implant placement can be coordinated. Other sites need grafting or a healing period first. The decision is based on infection, bone support, anatomy, and the restorative plan.
Call our office. We provide limited urgent surgical triage, primarily for patients referred by a dental or medical professional, and will explain the next available step.

Schedule a Tooth Extraction Evaluation

Call Northwest Oral Surgeons at 636-978-6967 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Udy and confirm which referral records are needed.
Call: 636-978-6967