Tooth Extraction in Calgary at a Glance
Quick answer: A tooth extraction removes a tooth that is badly damaged, infected, loose or causing crowding. The area is numbed first, and many extractions take less than an hour. Afterwards, rest and simple aftercare help the socket heal, and we can talk about replacing the tooth if needed. Inglewood Family Dental provides tooth extraction in Calgary.
Book online or call 403-265-5888 if you have a painful or damaged tooth.
We always try to save natural teeth first, but sometimes removal is the healthiest option. If you have been searching for tooth extraction near you, an exam and X-ray will show whether the tooth can be repaired or needs to come out.
Tooth extraction is provided by Inglewood Family Dental, a family dental clinic in Calgary, Alberta, led by Dr. Arash Ravanbakhsh, DDS. Our clinic is in the Inglewood community at 1420 9 Ave SE #24, Calgary, AB T2G 0T5, Canada, just east of downtown, and we welcome patients from every part of Calgary.
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Dentists aim to keep natural teeth whenever possible, using fillings, crowns or root canal therapy, but extraction may be recommended when a tooth cannot be saved or is causing problems for nearby teeth.
Common reasons include severe decay, advanced gum disease, a cracked tooth, crowding and impacted wisdom teeth.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?
- Severe decay or damage – when a tooth cannot be repaired with a filling, crown or root canal.
- Infection or abscess – when removing the tooth is the best way to clear the infection.
- Advanced gum disease – when a tooth has lost too much support and is loose.
- Crowding – when space is needed for orthodontic treatment.
- Problem wisdom teeth – teeth that are impacted or keep getting infected.
Simple vs Surgical Extractions
There are two main types of extraction. Your dentist will explain which one you need after looking at your X-ray:
| Feature | Simple extraction | Surgical extraction |
|---|---|---|
| Used for | Teeth that are fully visible above the gum | Broken, impacted or hard-to-reach teeth |
| How it is done | The tooth is loosened and gently removed | A small opening in the gum; the tooth may be removed in sections |
| Stitches | Usually not needed | Often needed |
| Recovery | Often a few days | Often a little longer |
Why Choose Our Clinic for Tooth Extractions?
We take time to explain your options, including whether the tooth could be saved, before any extraction.
Careful Assessment
We examine the tooth and take X-rays to plan the safest way to remove it, or to see whether it can be saved.
Comfort First
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, and we explain each step. Ask us about sedation options if you feel anxious.
Clear Aftercare
We give you written aftercare instructions and are available if you have questions while you heal.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?
Consultation
We examine the tooth and talk about why it needs to come out and your options.
X-Ray
An X-ray shows the tooth's roots and the surrounding bone.
Numbing
Local anaesthetic numbs the area so you feel pressure rather than pain.
Extraction
The tooth is gently loosened and removed, sometimes in sections.
Aftercare
We place gauze, explain how to care for the area and book a follow-up if needed.
Book Your Tooth Extraction Consultation
Have a painful, broken or infected tooth? Book online or call 403-265-5888. We will examine the tooth, explain your options and give you a clear estimate before treatment.
If you smoke, read our guide on smoking after a tooth extraction.
Aftercare After a Tooth Extraction
- Bite on gauze – for 30 to 45 minutes to help a blood clot form.
- Rest – take it easy for the rest of the day and keep your head raised.
- Ice for swelling – use a cold pack on the cheek for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
- Avoid straws, smoking and spitting – for at least a few days, to protect the clot.
- Eat soft foods – and chew on the other side.
- Rinse gently – with warm salt water from the next day, as advised.
- Call us – if pain gets worse after two or three days, or you have heavy bleeding, fever or a bad taste, which can be signs of dry socket or infection.
Replacing an Extracted Tooth
A gap left by a missing tooth can let neighbouring teeth shift and may affect chewing. Options to replace a tooth include dental implants, dental bridges and partial dentures. Your dentist can talk with you about the best option and timing before your extraction.
Benefits of Tooth Extraction
- Removes the source of pain from a damaged tooth
- Helps stop an infection from spreading
- Can make space for orthodontic treatment
- Removes problem wisdom teeth
- Prepares the mouth for an implant or bridge
- Helps protect nearby teeth and gums
How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost in Calgary?
The cost depends on whether the extraction is simple or surgical, the position of the tooth and whether X-rays or sedation are needed. Our fees are based on the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, and we explain the cost before treatment. For wisdom teeth, see our wisdom tooth removal cost page.
Many insurance plans cover part of the cost of extractions. We offer direct billing, accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) and offer financing options. If you are comparing tooth extraction near you, ask us for an estimate at your exam.
Serving Patients Across Calgary
Looking for tooth extraction near you? Patients visit us from across Calgary, not only from Inglewood. We are a few minutes east of downtown and an easy trip from Radisson Heights, Bridgeland-Riverside and Meridian. Evening and weekend appointments can make it easier to be seen when a tooth is causing problems. Book online or call 403-265-5888.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extraction
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Most people feel better within a few days, and the gum usually heals over one to two weeks. Surgical extractions can take a little longer. Following your aftercare instructions helps you heal comfortably.
Is tooth extraction painful?
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so most people feel pressure rather than pain during the extraction. Some soreness and swelling is common for a few days afterwards and can usually be managed with the pain relief your dentist recommends.
What happens during a tooth extraction?
After numbing the area, the dentist loosens the tooth and gently removes it. Impacted or broken teeth may need a small opening in the gum and may be removed in sections. Gauze is placed to help a blood clot form.
How much does it cost to remove a tooth?
It depends on whether the extraction is simple or surgical and on the position of the tooth. Our fees follow the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, and we explain the cost before treatment. Many insurance plans cover part of the cost.
What is the most common complication after tooth extraction?
Dry socket is the most common. It happens when the blood clot is lost or does not form, leaving the bone exposed and causing throbbing pain a few days later. Avoiding straws, smoking and hard rinsing can lower the risk.
Should I replace a tooth after it is removed?
Often, yes, especially for back teeth and visible teeth. Replacing a missing tooth can help prevent nearby teeth from shifting. Options include implants, bridges and partial dentures.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Arash Ravanbakhsh, DDS — Last reviewed: October 2026.