Dentist reviewing a dental X-ray with a relaxed patient before a tooth extraction in Beverly, Chicago
Thoroughly numbed: pressure, not pain
Gentle care when a tooth cannot be saved

Tooth Extractions in Beverly, Chicago

Saving your natural tooth is always the first goal. But when a tooth is badly broken, infected, loose from gum disease or crowding its neighbors, removing it can end the pain and protect the rest of your smile.

At More Smiles of Beverly, Dr. Ademola Adekola Jr. makes extractions as calm and comfortable as possible. We numb the area thoroughly, explain every step, and plan ahead for replacing the tooth so your bite stays healthy.

What to know first

A Calm, Comfortable Extraction Experience

An extraction is one of the most common dental procedures. With good numbing and clear aftercare, most people are back to their normal routine within a few days.

Fully Numbed

Local anesthetic means you feel pressure during removal, not sharp pain.

Explained Step by Step

We show you your X-ray and explain why and how the tooth will be removed.

Quick Recovery

Most people feel much better within 3 to 7 days with simple home care.

Replacement Planned

We discuss implants, bridges or dentures so the gap does not affect your bite.

When extraction may be needed

Signs a Tooth May Need to Come Out

We only recommend an extraction when repair is not the better option. Common reasons include:

  • Severe decay that reaches too deep for a filling or crown
  • A cracked or broken tooth that splits below the gumline
  • Advanced gum disease that has loosened the tooth
  • An infection that does not improve with other treatment
  • Crowding that blocks other teeth or orthodontic treatment
  • A problem wisdom tooth that is impacted, painful or hard to clean

Good to know: many painful teeth can still be saved with root canal treatment. We will always walk you through every option before recommending an extraction.

What to expect

What Happens During an Extraction

Knowing what to expect makes the visit much easier. Here is each step.

Exam and X-Rays

We look at the tooth, its roots and the bone around it to plan a safe removal.

Numbing

A numbing gel goes on first, then local anesthetic to fully numb the area.

Gentle Removal

The tooth is carefully loosened and lifted out. You feel pressure, not pain.

Gauze and Clot

Gauze is placed to control bleeding and help a healthy blood clot form.

Aftercare Plan

You go home with clear instructions and a plan to replace the tooth.

Gentle Care When a Tooth Cannot Be Saved.

A calm, modern office in Beverly, and a team that explains every step.

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Types of extractions and next steps

What Kind of Extraction Do You Need?

Every tooth is different. Your X-rays show whether the removal is simple or surgical, and what the best replacement will be once you heal.

Most common

Simple Extraction

  • ToothFully visible above the gum
  • MethodLoosened and lifted out
  • NumbingLocal anesthetic
  • HealingGums close in about 1 to 2 weeks
More complex

Surgical Extraction

  • ToothBroken at the gumline or under it
  • MethodSmall gum opening, tooth may be sectioned
  • NumbingLocal anesthetic
  • HealingA few extra days of care
Back molars

Wisdom Teeth

  • Common issueImpacted or partly erupted
  • SignsPain, swelling, crowding
  • PlanX-ray first, then options
  • Complex casesSpecialist coordination when needed
After healing

Replacing the Tooth

  • ImplantsMost natural, protects bone
  • BridgesFixed, no surgery needed
  • DenturesFor several missing teeth
  • WhyKeeps your bite from shifting
Learn more
Patient resting at home with a cold pack on the cheek after a tooth extraction
After your visit

Healing After Your Extraction

The first few days matter most. Protecting the blood clot is the key to a smooth recovery:

Rest the first 24 hours

Keep your head raised and bite gently on gauze as directed.

Use a cold pack

Apply it to your cheek on and off to reduce swelling.

Eat soft, cool foods

Yogurt, soup and mashed potatoes. Skip hot, crunchy or spicy foods.

No straws or smoking

Suction can dislodge the clot and cause a painful dry socket.

Read our complete guide to tooth extractionsReasons for extraction and recovery tips
Dr. Ademola J. Adekola Jr., DDS, dentist at More Smiles of Beverly

Dr. Ademola J. Adekola Jr., DDS

A graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry with advanced training in bone grafting and implants, Dr. Adekola plans every extraction with your future smile in mind.

American Dental AssociationChicago Dental SocietyAcademy of General DentistryIllinois State Dental Society
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Questions we hear often

Tooth Extractions FAQ

Is a tooth extraction painful?

The extraction itself should not hurt because the area is fully numbed with local anesthetic. You will feel pressure or pushing, but not sharp pain. Some soreness and swelling afterward is normal and is usually managed with rest, cold packs and over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

Most people feel much better within 3 to 7 days. The gum usually closes over the site in about 1 to 2 weeks, while the bone underneath continues to heal over the next few months.

Why is day 3 often the worst after an extraction?

Swelling and inflammation naturally peak around 48 to 72 hours after the procedure. After that point, discomfort should steadily improve. If pain gets worse after day 3 instead of better, call us, since it can be a sign of dry socket or infection.

What should I avoid after a tooth extraction?

For the first few days, avoid straws, smoking, forceful spitting or rinsing, heavy exercise, and hot, crunchy or spicy foods. These can disturb the blood clot that protects the socket while it heals.

When can I eat and drink after an extraction?

You can sip cool or room-temperature water once the numbness starts to wear off, usually within an hour or two. Stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt, soup and mashed potatoes for the first few days, and chew on the other side.

What is dry socket and how do I prevent it?

Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the socket is lost too early, exposing the bone and causing strong, throbbing pain. Following your aftercare instructions, especially no straws and no smoking, is the best way to prevent it.

Should I replace a tooth after it is removed?

In most cases, yes. A missing tooth lets neighboring teeth drift and can change your bite over time. Dental implants, bridges and dentures are all options, and Dr. Adekola will recommend the best fit once you have healed.

How much does a tooth extraction cost?

Every treatment plan is quoted after an exam, because the cost depends on whether the removal is simple or surgical and on your X-ray findings. Our team will review your options and insurance with you before any treatment. Contact us for a quote.

Areas we serve

Tooth Extractions Near You in the Southwest Side and Suburbs

Our office at 2407 W 104th St sits in the heart of Beverly, an easy drive for families across Chicago's Southwest Side and the nearby south suburbs.

BeverlyMorgan ParkMount GreenwoodWashington HeightsAshburnAuburn GreshamEvergreen ParkOak LawnBlue IslandAlsipMerrionette ParkChicago RidgeWorthPalos Heights

Tooth Pain That Won't Quit? Let's Take a Look.

Mon to Fri, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 2407 W 104th St, Chicago, IL 60655