Smile Stop Dentures and Implants
- Sep 22
- 3 min read

Learning About Molar Extractions and What to Expect

A woman with dark hair pulled back holds her mouth with a look of pain on her face. — Smile Stop Dentures & Implants discusses molar extractions.

Molar extractions are a common dental procedure that involves removing one or more molars. While this can seem daunting, it's often necessary for various reasons. These include: tooth decay, infection, gum disease, or to prepare for other dental treatments like dentures or braces.

If you live near Bartlesville or Tulsa, Oklahoma, and are considering molar extraction, this blog post will provide valuable information.

Why Are Molar Extractions Necessary?

Tooth Decay and Infection: Severe tooth decay or infections can lead to pain, swelling, and even abscesses. If these problems cannot be treated with other methods, extraction may be the only option. Pulling teeth may seem extreme, or a last-resort, type of treatment but the truth is that this is a common part of oral care.
Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can cause the gums and bone surrounding the teeth to deteriorate. In severe cases, molar extractions may be necessary to prevent further damage. Gum disease can lead to other serious health concerns if left untreated. Work with your dentist if you have concerns about your gums.
Orthodontic Treatment: To create space for teeth to move during orthodontic treatment (like braces), molars may need to be extracted.
Wisdom Tooth Impaction: If wisdom teeth are impacted (unable to fully erupt), they can cause pain, swelling, and damage to nearby teeth. Extraction is often recommended in these cases. Your dentist will work with you if they recommend this.

What to Expect During a Molar Extraction

Molar extractions are typically performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth. In some cases,sedation or general anesthesia may be used for patients who are anxious or have a strong gag reflex.

Smile Stop Dentures & Implants offers oral sedation as a comfortable and convenient option for patients who experience anxiety or fear during dental procedures. Oral sedation is a type of medication that is taken by mouth and helps to relax you during your appointment. With oral sedation, you will be able to remain awake and responsive, but you will feel calm and relaxed. This can make your dental experience much more pleasant and stress-free.

The procedure itself involves using dental instruments to loosen the tooth and carefully remove it from the socket. After the extraction, the dentist will place a gauze pad over the extraction site to control bleeding.

Recovery After Molar Extraction

Pain and Swelling: It's normal to experience some pain and swelling after a molar extraction. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
Bleeding: Some bleeding is expected for the first few days. Applying pressure to the extraction site with a gauze pad can help control bleeding.
Diet: Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for several days after the extraction. Stick to soft, bland foods to avoid irritating the extraction site.
Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss gently around the extraction site, but avoid disturbing the blood clot.
Follow-Up: It's important to schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist to ensure the extraction site is healing properly.

Choosing the Right Dentist for Molar Extraction

When selecting a dentist for your molar extraction, consider the following factors:

Experience: Look for a dentist with experience in performing molar extractions.
Credentials: Ensure the dentist is licensed and has the necessary qualifications.
Comfort and Trust: Choose a dentist with whom you feel comfortable and trust.

Smile Stop Dentures & Implants is a reputable dental practice in the Bartlesville and Tulsa areas, specializing in molar extractions and other dental procedures. Their experienced team can provide you with the care and expertise you need for a successful extraction.

Smile Stop Dentures & Implants is proud to be led by Drs. John Lard and Wes Thompson, two experienced and compassionate dentists dedicated to providing exceptional dental care to the Bartlesville and Tulsa communities.

Dr. Lard, a graduate of the University of Tennessee, brings over two decades of experience in restorative, cosmetic, and dental implant dentistry. Dr. Thompson, a native of Bartlesville, is passionate about helping patients achieve optimal oral health through his expertise in dental implants, oral surgery, and restorative dentistry. Both dentists are committed to continuing education and creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for their patients.

If you're considering molar extraction, don't hesitate to contact Smile Stop Dentures & Implants for a consultation. Their friendly staff can answer your questions and help you determine the best course of action for your dental needs.