Extractions and Wisdom Teeth in West Edmonton
Relief Without the Runaround
Sometimes a tooth can't be saved, and the most important thing becomes removing it quickly, safely, and with as little discomfort as possible. At La Perle Dental Centre, extractions and wisdom teeth removals are handled in-house by an experienced team. You don't need a referral to an oral surgeon for most cases, which means less waiting, fewer appointments, and faster relief.
Same-Day Extractions Available
If you're in pain and need a tooth removed, you shouldn't have to wait days for an appointment. We reserve same-day availability for patients in acute pain so you can get relief the day you call.
We Save You the Specialist Runaround
Most straightforward extractions and the majority of wisdom tooth removals can be completed right here. No referral, no waiting weeks for a specialist appointment, no paying specialist fees. We handle it in-house at a cost below the Alberta fee guide.
Honest Costs, Manageable Payments
We review all fees with you before treatment begins, direct bill your insurance, and offer flexible in-house payment plans for any remaining balance. Getting out of pain shouldn't come with a financial surprise.
Accepting the Canadian
Dental Care Plan
When an Extraction Is the Right Call
At La Perle, we always look for a way to save a natural tooth first. But there are situations where extraction is the right decision, and waiting only makes things worse:
- Severe decay that has damaged the tooth beyond what a filling or crown can restore
- An infection that has progressed too far for root canal treatment to be effective
- A broken or fractured tooth that cannot be structurally repaired
- A tooth that is causing crowding or preventing other teeth from coming in properly
- A baby tooth that hasn't fallen out and is blocking the permanent tooth beneath it
- Advanced gum disease that has caused significant bone loss around the tooth
In these cases, removing the tooth promptly relieves pain, eliminates infection, and protects the surrounding teeth. We'll always explain why extraction is the recommended option and what comes next so you can make an informed decision.
What You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to come in, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. Because most mouths don't have room for them, they frequently cause problems:
Impaction
The tooth becomes trapped beneath the gum or grows in at an angle, causing pressure and pain
Crowding
Wisdom teeth push against neighbouring teeth as they try to emerge, shifting alignment
Infection
Partially erupted wisdom teeth create a flap of gum tissue where bacteria accumulate, leading to recurring infections
Decay
Wisdom teeth sit at the back of the mouth where they're difficult to clean, making them highly susceptible to cavities
Cysts
In some cases, an impacted wisdom tooth can develop a cyst that damages surrounding bone and teeth
Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed. We assess each case individually using X-rays and a clinical exam. If removal is recommended, we'll explain exactly why and what the process looks like before anything is scheduled.
What Happens After a Tooth Is Removed
Extraction isn't the end of the conversation. Once a tooth is gone, it's important to understand what that means for the surrounding teeth and bone, and what the options are for filling the space.
- The jawbone beneath a missing tooth gradually loses density over time without a root to stimulate it
- Neighbouring teeth can drift into the empty space, affecting bite and alignment
- Depending on the location of the tooth, a replacement such as an implant or bridge may be worth considering
We'll talk through all of this at your appointment so you leave with a clear picture of what was done, what to watch for during healing, and what your options are going forward.
What to Expect
Before Your Appointment
If you're calling because you're in pain, let us know. We'll do our best to get you in the same day. Before any extraction, we take X-rays to assess the tooth and surrounding bone, confirm the best approach, and walk you through what's involved and what it will cost. Nothing starts until you understand the plan and agree to it.
During the Procedure
Extractions are performed under local anaesthesia. Most patients are surprised by how straightforward the experience is. Here is what the process looks like:
- The area around the tooth is numbed thoroughly before anything begins
- For a straightforward extraction, the tooth is gently loosened and removed
- For a surgical extraction or an impacted wisdom tooth, a small incision may be made in the gum to access the tooth
- Wisdom teeth that are fully impacted may be removed in sections to minimize disruption to the surrounding tissue
- The site is cleaned and gauze is placed to control bleeding
- Dissolvable stitches are used when needed
Most extractions take between 20 and 60 minutes depending on the complexity of the case. We'll give you a realistic time estimate beforehand.
After Your Appointment
Recovery from a routine extraction is typically straightforward. Here's what to expect and how to support healing:
- Some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort in the first 24 to 48 hours is normal
- Keep gauze in place and bite down gently for the first hour to help a clot form
- Avoid rinsing, spitting forcefully, or using a straw for the first 24 hours to protect the clot
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing near the extraction site for the first few days
- Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient for managing discomfort
- Swelling typically peaks around 48 hours and gradually improves after that
- If you experience increasing pain after a few days, contact us, as this may be a sign of dry socket
We send every patient home with clear aftercare instructions and are always available by phone if you have questions during recovery.
A Team That Listens Before It Acts
We Handle Complex Cases In-House
We Focus on Results, Not Recommendations
Dental Care That Works for Your Life
Fees Below Alberta Fee Guide
Direct Billing
to Insurance
Open Evenings and Weekends
Same-Day
Emergency Care
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm nervous about having a tooth pulled?
Tell us when you book. Our team is trained to work with anxious patients and will take the time to explain every step before it happens. We work at your pace and make sure you're fully numb and comfortable before we begin. Oral sedation is also available for patients who need additional support.
How much does an extraction cost at La Perle?
The cost depends on the complexity of the extraction. A straightforward removal costs less than a surgical extraction or an impacted wisdom tooth. We review fees with you before treatment begins, direct bill your insurance, and offer payment plans if there's a remaining balance.
What can I eat after an extraction?
Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Good options include yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies without a straw, and soup. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could disturb the extraction site. You can gradually return to a normal diet as healing progresses.
Do I need to replace an extracted tooth?
It depends on which tooth is removed and where it sits in your mouth. Wisdom teeth generally don't need to be replaced. For other teeth, leaving a gap can lead to shifting of neighbouring teeth and bone loss over time. We'll discuss your options, including implants and bridges, at your appointment so you can make an informed decision.
Will I need stitches?
Not always. Simple extractions usually don't require stitches. Surgical extractions and wisdom tooth removals often do. When stitches are used, they are typically dissolvable and don't need to be removed.
How long does it take to recover from a wisdom tooth removal?
Most patients feel back to normal within three to five days for a straightforward removal. More complex cases involving impacted teeth may take seven to ten days. Swelling typically peaks around 48 hours and gradually improves. We'll give you specific aftercare instructions based on your case.
What is a dry socket and how do I avoid it?
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves before the wound has healed, exposing the bone underneath. It causes significant pain and requires treatment. To avoid it, don't use a straw, rinse forcefully, or smoke for at least 48 hours after the extraction. If you develop increasing pain a few days after the procedure, call us.
Can the extraction be done the same day?
In many cases, yes. We offer same-day extractions for patients in acute pain. Call us and let us know what you're experiencing and we'll do our best to see you the same day.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not all wisdom teeth need to come out. Signs that removal may be needed include pain or pressure at the back of the jaw, swelling or tenderness in the gum near the back teeth, recurring infections in the area, difficulty opening your mouth, or crowding of your other teeth. We'll assess your wisdom teeth with X-rays and give you an honest recommendation.
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
The extraction itself is performed under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. You may feel pressure or movement, but not sharp pain. If at any point you feel discomfort, let us know and we'll adjust. Post-extraction soreness is normal for a few days and is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Learn More About Tooth Extraction
Located in West Edmonton
La Perle Dental Centre is in the heart of the La Perle neighbourhood, serving families across West Edmonton. Free on-site parking. Easy access from 182 Street NW.
Free parking is available on site. We are near West Jasper Place Community Health Centre at 9710 182 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5T 3T9.
