At MK Periodontics and Implants in Tacoma, WA, tooth extraction isn’t just about removing a damaged tooth. It’s about evaluating the whole picture, including your oral microbiome, your systemic health, your future tooth replacement goals, and your priorities. Our board-certified periodontists offer a biologically gentle and surgically precise experience for patients who seek more than just treatment. They want outcomes that support their long-term vitality and align with their overall wellness goals.
We understand that the decision to extract a tooth is often emotional and complex. That’s why our team provides comprehensive care grounded in compassion, clarity, and clinical expertise.
Why Choose a Periodontist for Tooth Extractions?
General dentists perform most extractions, but when you need a solution tailored to complex oral health needs or long-term systemic wellness, a specialist makes all the difference.
At MK Periodontics and Implants:
- Our periodontists complete three years of advanced training beyond dental school to master procedures like surgical extractions, bone preservation, and soft-tissue reconstruction.
- We use protocols that promote the body’s natural healing processes and protect your bone, tissue, and oral microbiome.
- We create a judgment-free, culturally diverse environment where your goals and preferences drive every decision.
Whether you’re seeking a second opinion, exploring tooth replacement options, or proactively managing a compromised tooth, you’ll find a trusted partner here.
What Is A Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. At MK Perio, this is done only when conservative therapies have been ruled out and preservation is no longer possible. Our approach prioritizes:
- Bone and tissue preservation using advanced techniques such as socket grafting
- Minimally invasive surgical protocols that reduce trauma and speed healing
- Planning for long-term wellness, including options for future implants, bridges, or natural maintenance
When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
We believe in saving natural teeth whenever possible. But in some cases, removal is the healthiest choice:
- Severe periodontal disease or bone loss
- Deep decay or infection that cannot be resolved with endodontic treatment
- Fractured or damaged teeth beyond repair
- Teeth impeding orthodontic movement or oral surgery
- Retained primary or impacted teeth
- Biologic burden impacting overall wellness or inflammatory conditions
As a periodontal practice, we evaluate not just the tooth, but also how infection or dysfunction may be contributing to fatigue, systemic inflammation, immune compromise, or functional instability.
The Initial Visit: What to Expect
Your first step is a comprehensive initial visit that includes the time, insight, and surgical expertise of a specialist who takes your full-body health seriously.
During your visit:
- We perform a comprehensive periodontal evaluation, not just a tooth exam
- You receive advanced imaging, including digital X-rays and 3D CBCT if needed
- Your provider walks you through biological risk factors, medical history, oral health goals, and future treatment planning
- You leave with a written care plan and detailed post-treatment instructions for enhanced healing
How We Support Your Healing: Post-Extraction Aftercare
We believe in the body’s ability to heal with the right support. That’s why our post-extraction care includes:
- Socket preservation and bone grafting to maintain bone volume for potential future implants
- Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) or regenerative biologics (when applicable) to promote tissue healing
- Ongoing supportive periodontal therapy with our EMS Perio Flow device—a pain-free cleaning method using erythritol powder that removes harmful bacteria while protecting delicate tissue
- Nutritional guidance and integrative health tools to support systemic recovery
- Referrals to trusted wellness practitioners if systemic inflammation or immune issues are impacting your healing
Do I Need to Replace My Tooth After an Extraction?
Not always, but we’ll talk about your options during your visit. The most common options include:
- Dental Implants, including zirconia implant options for biocompatibility
- Bridges for tooth gaps that don’t require implant anchoring
- Leaving the space open, which may be a valid option depending on bite, aesthetics, and adjacent tooth support
Our focus is on long-term stability and delivering honest, customized advice.
Our Approach to Whole-Body Health
Everything we do is rooted in holistic wellness, not just symptom treatment. At MK Periodontics and Implants in Tacoma, your care is:
- Customized – You are not a template. Your age, biology, goals, and values all matter.
- Preventive – We act early to stop further damage and optimize longevity.
- Collaborative – We coordinate with your other healthcare providers to support whole-body outcomes.
- Evidence-based – We follow clinical guidelines from the American Academy of Periodontology and Academy of Osseointegration.
Benefits of Tooth Extraction
Once you’re ready, your doctor can perform a tooth extraction to:
Take out a damaged tooth
Even the best dental care may not save a severely diseased or injured tooth. Tooth extraction can prevent ongoing discomfort, gum disease, and long-term oral health problems.
Support denture placement
By extracting unhealthy teeth, we can create a strong foundation for patients who will be wearing dentures.
Make room for teeth in the dental arch
Our practice works closely with several Tacoma orthodontists, who commonly refer patients to us for tooth extraction. Treatment can provide more room in the dental arch, improving a patient’s smile and function.
Exposing teeth beneath the gums
Sometimes, a person’s tooth doesn’t erupt properly from the gums. Our periodontists can uncover these teeth so that they can move into their proper position.
The Tooth Extraction Process
View a Video Detailing a Tooth Extraction Procedure
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Is tooth extraction painful?
With localized numbing, sedation options, and a gentle technique, most patients are surprised by how manageable the procedure is.
How long is tooth extraction recovery?
Most soft-tissue healing occurs within 1–2 weeks. Bone remodeling may take 3–6 months, especially if implant placement is planned.
Will I need a bone graft?
If you want to preserve the option for future implants or maintain facial structure, bone grafting is strongly recommended at the time of extraction.
How much does a tooth extraction cost and is it covered by insurance?
MK Periodontics and Implants accepts a variety of insurance plans and can help you understand your coverage based on your specific provider and benefits. For patients without insurance or with limited coverage, we also offer flexible financing options. These options are designed to make high-quality periodontal care accessible, without compromising your health goals or long-term outcomes.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Conveniently located in Tacoma, WA, we invite you to take the first step toward personalized, biologically based care that supports your long-term wellness. Contact our office in Tacoma today to experience a truly elevated approach to periodontal health.
