Who tooth extractions are for
There are several reasons a tooth may need to come out: decay so extensive that it puts neighboring teeth at risk, an infection, a baby tooth whose roots are blocking the permanent tooth, making room for orthodontic treatment, or problems with a wisdom tooth.
We remove a tooth only after looking at whether it can reasonably be saved. If it can, we will tell you.
How it works, step by step
- We review your health history and medications and take an X-ray of the tooth.
- We numb the area completely.
- We gently loosen the tooth and remove it.
- We place gauze to control bleeding and go over home care instructions with you.
- We talk about options for replacing the tooth, if replacement is needed.
What to expect at our Hanford office
You will feel pressure during an extraction, but you should not feel sharp pain. Most simple extractions are finished in a short visit. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
Dr. Daniel Unzicker is a general dentist who performs extractions. Some situations, such as certain impacted wisdom teeth or patients with complex medical needs, are best handled by an oral surgeon. If we recommend a referral, we will explain why and help set it up.
Benefits
- Removes a source of pain and infection
- Protects neighboring teeth from spreading decay
- Clears the way for a permanent tooth or orthodontic treatment
- Allows a failing tooth to be replaced with something stable
Aftercare
Bite gently on gauze as directed, and avoid rinsing, spitting forcefully, smoking or drinking through a straw for the first day so the blood clot stays in place.
Eat soft foods, keep your head elevated and use cold packs for swelling. Call us if pain increases after the second or third day, or if bleeding does not slow.
Cost and insurance
Cost depends on the tooth and how involved the removal is. We provide an estimate first, and many dental plans cover a portion.
A removed tooth, other than a wisdom tooth, usually should be replaced. Options include a bridge, an implant-supported crown or a partial denture.
You can pay your bill online, and our new patient page explains what to bring to your first visit.
Your dentist: Daniel W. Unzicker, DDS
Dr. Daniel Unzicker, DDS, provides tooth extractions at our Hanford office. He is a general dentist who was born and raised in Hanford, graduated with high honors from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in 2012 and completed a general practice residency at Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center.
Page last updated November 10, 2026. This page is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. If you have significant facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or trauma to the head or jaw, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
