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Smiley Dental Boston

What Are the Signs I Need an Emergency Root Canal or Extraction?

Man holding jaw in pain during emergency dental exam for possible root canal or tooth extraction in Roslindale

Quick Answer The clearest signs you need an emergency root canal or extraction are severe tooth pain, swelling, lingering sensitivity, or a bad taste that will not go away. A root canal can often save the tooth if the infection is caught early. Extraction becomes necessary when the tooth is too damaged or infected to […]

Simple vs. Surgical Extractions: A Complete Guide

Dentist and dental assistant performing a surgical tooth extraction procedure on a patient at Smiley Dental

QUICK ANSWER A simple extraction removes a tooth that’s fully visible above the gumline using local anesthesia, usually in just a few minutes with no incision. A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth is broken, impacted, or hidden beneath the gum or bone, and may involve a small incision, bone removal, or stitches. Simple […]