Simple Tooth Extraction
Simple Tooth Extraction is a specialized dental service provided by the board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Straightforward removal of visible, accessible teeth with minimal tissue disruption.
A Controlled Removal — Not a Yank
The term "simple extraction" refers to the removal of a tooth that is visible above the gumline and can be loosened from its socket using elevators and forceps without cutting gum tissue or removing bone. Simple does not mean careless. The mechanics of a proper simple extraction involve controlled application of force along the path of least resistance — expanding the socket walls gradually, severing the periodontal ligament fibers, and delivering the tooth intact with the buccal plate preserved. At ADSC, even routine removals follow a deliberate surgical protocol.
Common reasons for simple extraction include teeth with advanced decay that cannot be restored, loose teeth due to severe periodontal disease, fractured teeth where the break is above the bone level, and planned orthodontic extractions. Dr. Ostovar verifies root morphology on imaging before every extraction — single-rooted teeth with straight roots and adequate crown structure are ideal candidates for the simple approach. When pre-operative evaluation reveals curved roots, ankylosis, or root tips sitting on the nerve canal, the plan shifts to surgical extraction before the procedure begins, not after a forceps attempt fails.
After the tooth is delivered, the socket is examined for intact walls, debrided of any granulation tissue, and irrigated. For patients who will receive an implant later, we place a socket preservation graft and PRF at the time of extraction. The site may or may not require sutures depending on the tissue. You leave with gauze packs, written post-operative instructions, and a clear understanding of what to expect over the next week. Most patients return to normal activity by the next day.
Serving Beaverton, Aloha, Hillsboro & Washington County
Aloha Dental Specialty Center is located at 18455 SW Alexander St, Suite A, in Beaverton, Or 97003egon. We serve patients from across the Tualatin Valley and greater Portland metro, including Aloha, Hillsboro, Tigard, Lake Oswego, and Tualatin. Our Beaverton office is a 5-minute drive from Aloha, 10 minutes from Hillsboro, and 15 minutes from Tigard via SW 185th Avenue.
-
📍
Intel Campuses (Ronler Acres & Jones Farm)
10 to 15 minutes via NW 185th Ave. We accommodate the schedules of tech professionals who need efficient, high-quality specialty care.
-
📍
Nike World Headquarters
About 8 minutes via SW Baseline Rd. We frequently see patients from the Nike campus for surgical and implant procedures with sedation options.
-
📍
Streets of Tanasbourne & Orenco Station
Easily accessible via US-26 and NW 185th. Local general dentists in these communities regularly refer patients to us for specialty procedures.
Why Local Dentists Refer to Us
We work as a trusted partner to general dentists throughout the Tualatin Valley. When cases require CBCT-guided planning, IV sedation, bone grafting, or other advanced procedures, local providers refer to Dr. Ostovar for his fellowship-trained expertise and predictable results.
We handle the complex surgical phases and coordinate closely with your general dentist for seamless continuity of care from start to finish.
Understanding Your Investment
At Aloha Dental Specialty Center, we provide transparent pricing before any treatment begins. The cost of your procedure depends on clinical complexity, materials used, and sedation requirements. We walk you through every line item during your consultation so there are no surprises.
What Affects Cost:
- Clinical Complexity: Bone loss, sinus proximity, nerve involvement, or the need for grafting affects treatment planning and surgical time.
- Materials: We use research-backed implant systems, purified bone graft matrices, and high-strength ceramics from established manufacturers.
- Sedation: Options range from local anesthesia to IV sedation, each with different associated costs. We discuss the best option for your comfort and procedure.
Insurance & Financing
We accept most major dental insurance plans and file claims on your behalf. Our team verifies your benefits before treatment and submits pre-treatment estimates with clinical documentation to maximize coverage.
For out-of-pocket costs, we partner with CareCredit and Cherry for flexible payment plans. We also offer our ADSC Dental Savings Plan for patients without insurance.
Recovery & Healing Timeline
Understanding the healing process helps you plan ahead and follow post-operative instructions for the best possible outcome.
First 48 Hours
Mild swelling and tenderness are normal. Apply ice packs in 20-minute intervals and take prescribed or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. Eat soft foods and avoid the surgical site when chewing.
Days 3 to 7
Swelling peaks around day three and then improves. The tissue begins closing over the surgical site. Continue with soft foods and use any prescribed antimicrobial rinse. Most patients return to normal activities during this phase.
Long-Term Healing
Surface tissue heals within two to three weeks. Bone integration and deep healing continue for three to six months. Avoid smoking, follow up as scheduled, and maintain good oral hygiene throughout recovery.
Questions during recovery? Call us at (503) 822-0096. We are available for post-operative concerns.
The Periodontal Ligament and Socket Mechanics
The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a 0.15-0.38mm thick connective tissue layer that suspends the tooth root within the alveolar socket. It consists of collagen fiber bundles (Sharpey's fibers) that insert into both the root cementum and the alveolar bone. During simple extraction, the elevator disrupts these fibers incrementally, expanding the socket and creating space for the tooth to move. The PDL also contains proprioceptive nerve endings that detect bite pressure — which is why extraction of a vital tooth requires thorough anesthesia. Once the PDL fibers are severed and the tooth is removed, the empty socket fills with blood that clots and begins the healing cascade: inflammation, granulation tissue formation, woven bone deposition, and eventually mature lamellar bone remodeling.
Why Choose a Specialist?
Even simple extractions can become complicated when the crown fractures during elevation, when the root diverges unexpectedly, or when the buccal plate cracks from excessive force. A specialist who performs extractions daily develops the tactile sense to recognize resistance early and adjust technique — switching from a forceps delivery to a surgical approach before complications occur. This adaptability, combined with immediate access to CBCT imaging and a fully equipped surgical suite, means that a "simple" extraction at ADSC stays simple.
Not every patient is an immediate candidate for simple tooth extraction. Factors like overall health, bone density, and medication history can affect eligibility. We evaluate each case individually and will give you an honest assessment during your consultation.
Your Simple Tooth Extraction Treatment Steps
- Consultation & Exam: Comprehensive simple tooth extraction evaluation with CBCT 3D imaging at our Beaverton office.
- Treatment Plan: Board-certified specialist discusses your simple tooth extraction options, timeline, and costs. Our procedures maintain a 95%+ success rate, backed by advanced 3D imaging and evidence-based protocols.
- Treatment: Procedure performed with comfort options including sedation if needed.
- Follow-Up: Post-treatment monitoring and care coordination for optimal healing.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Book a consultation with our board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Call (503) 822-0096 Office hours: Monday through Friday 7 AM to 7 PM, Saturday and Sunday 8 AM to 2 PM. or request an appointment online.
Related Services at Aloha Dental Specialty Center:
Dental Implants · Oral Surgery · Root Canal · Invisalign · Periodontics · Pediatric · TMJ Treatment · Sedation · Cosmetic · Emergency · Sleep Apnea
From Dr. Ostovar: What Patients Should Know
“I know oral surgery sounds intimidating — many patients tell me they’ve been putting this off for months or even years. Here’s what I want you to know: with IV sedation, you won’t remember anything. You’ll close your eyes, and the next thing you know, it’s done. Most patients say the anticipation was far worse than the reality.
Recovery depends on the complexity. For a straightforward case, you’re looking at 2-3 days of swelling managed with ice packs and ibuprofen, then gradual improvement over the following week. I recommend soft foods for 7-10 days — yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, smoothies. No straws, no smoking, no vigorous rinsing for at least 5 days.
I always use CBCT 3D imaging before any surgical procedure. A standard X-ray gives me a flat picture — the CT scan shows me exactly where the nerves are, what the bone looks like in three dimensions, and how to plan the safest approach. It makes a real difference in outcomes.”
— Dr. Merat Ostovar, DDS | Oral Surgery, Aloha Dental Specialty Center
Typical Healing Timeline:
Days 1-3: Initial healing, mild swelling managed with ice and medication. Days 4-7: Swelling subsides, gradual return to normal diet. Weeks 2-4: Soft tissue heals completely. Months 2-6: Bone remodeling and full integration (for surgical procedures). Individual recovery varies — we provide detailed post-op instructions specific to your procedure.
For additional clinical information, visit the American Dental Association (ADA).
Last reviewed by our dental specialists: March 2026. Clinical information on this page reflects current evidence-based dental practices.
Related Dental Services
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a simple extraction?
A simple extraction is one where the tooth is visible above the gumline, has adequate crown structure to grasp with forceps, and can be removed without cutting gum tissue or removing bone. Teeth that are fully erupted, mobile due to periodontal disease, or have straight, non-fused roots are typical candidates.
How long does a simple extraction take?
Most simple extractions take 15-20 minutes from the time anesthesia is administered to the time the tooth is out. The numbing process itself takes 5-10 minutes to take full effect. Longer appointments are scheduled when multiple teeth are being removed in the same visit.
Will I need stitches after a simple extraction?
Most simple extractions do not require stitches. The socket is left to heal naturally with a blood clot. If the tissue is loose or the socket is large, we may place a single resorbable suture to help the gum edges come together. This dissolves on its own within 7-14 days.
How much does a simple extraction cost?
Simple extraction fees are lower than surgical extractions. Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion. We provide a specific cost estimate after evaluating the tooth and verifying your insurance benefits during your consultation appointment.
Can I drive myself home after a simple extraction?
Yes, if only local anesthesia is used. You will be numb but fully alert and capable of driving. If you choose to add nitrous oxide or oral sedation, you will need a driver. IV sedation is also available for patients who want it, in which case a driver is mandatory.
What if the tooth breaks during extraction?
If the crown fractures during a simple extraction attempt, the procedure converts to a surgical extraction. The remaining root is accessed by elevating a small gum flap and possibly removing a small amount of bone. This is not uncommon with heavily decayed teeth, and our surgical suite is always prepared for this contingency.
Is a simple extraction appropriate for a baby tooth in an adult?
Yes. Retained baby teeth (deciduous teeth that did not fall out) are often removed via simple extraction, especially when they are mobile or blocking the eruption of a permanent tooth. If the baby tooth has fused to the bone (ankylosis), which happens with retained primary molars, a surgical approach may be needed.
When can I eat after a simple extraction?
Wait until the anesthesia wears off (2-4 hours) to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. Start with soft foods on the opposite side of your mouth. You can gradually resume normal eating over the next few days as comfort allows. Avoid hard, crunchy, or very hot foods for at least 3 days.
How do I care for the extraction site at home?
Bite on gauze for 30-45 minutes after the extraction. Do not disturb the blood clot — no rinsing, spitting, or using straws for 24 hours. Starting the day after, rinse gently with warm salt water (half teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) 3-4 times daily for one week. Take medications as prescribed.
What is the risk of dry socket with a simple extraction?
Dry socket occurs in approximately 2-5% of routine extractions (and more frequently after lower molar extractions). Risk factors include smoking, use of oral contraceptives, vigorous rinsing in the first 24 hours, and use of straws. Following post-operative instructions carefully significantly reduces your risk.
Should I stop my medications before a simple extraction?
Generally, no. Continue all regular medications including blood thinners unless specifically instructed otherwise by your physician. Inform us of all medications, supplements, and medical conditions during your consultation. We will advise you if any adjustments are needed.
Can multiple simple extractions be done at once?
Yes. Multiple simple extractions are commonly performed in a single appointment. For patients needing several teeth removed — such as before denture fabrication — we can extract multiple teeth in one session, often with IV sedation for comfort. This reduces the number of appointments and recovery periods.
Will there be a gap in my smile after extraction?
If the tooth is in a visible area, there will be a gap until a replacement is placed. We discuss replacement options (implant, bridge, partial denture) before the extraction so you can plan ahead. For some patients, a temporary flipper (removable partial) can be fabricated in advance to wear immediately after extraction.
How long until the socket fully heals after a simple extraction?
The gum tissue closes over the socket within 2-3 weeks. The underlying bone fills in over 3-6 months. You will be functionally comfortable well before full bone healing occurs. If a bone graft was placed, healing extends to 4-6 months before the site is ready for implant placement.
Is a simple extraction less risky than a surgical extraction?
Simple extractions generally carry lower risk because they involve less tissue disruption — no flap, no bone removal. The risks of bleeding, infection, and nerve injury are lower. However, both procedures are safe when performed by an experienced surgeon with proper imaging and technique.
Straightforward Extraction Needed? Book Your Appointment Today.
Call our Beaverton office or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you.
Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Merat Ostovar, DMD
Doctor of Dental Medicine | Implant & Specialty Dentistry | 15+ Years Experience
Aloha Dental Specialty Center — Serving Aloha, Beaverton, Hillsboro & Greater Portland
Last updated: March 19, 2026