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Tooth Extraction Myths and Facts: What Roswell Patients Should Really Know

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When your Roswell dentist recommends a tooth extraction, it’s normal to feel nervous. After all, most people associate tooth removal with pain, complications, or long-term issues. But the reality is, modern dental extractions are safe, comfortable, and often the best step for long-term oral health—especially when handled by an experienced dentist like Dr. Mitzi Morris.

At our Roswell dental office, we regularly help patients make confident, informed decisions by separating fact from fiction. If you’ve heard any of the following tooth extraction myths, it’s time to get the truth.

Myth #1: Tooth Extractions Are Extremely Painful

Fact: Thanks to advancements in local anesthesia and sedation dentistry, tooth extractions are now nearly painless. Patients often feel pressure during the procedure, but not pain. Afterward, mild discomfort is managed with over-the-counter medication and proper aftercare.

Dr. Mitzi Morris offers gentle, precise extractions in a calming environment. For those with dental anxiety, nitrous oxide or other sedation options can make the experience even more comfortable.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), “Pain during a tooth extraction is not typical when appropriate anesthesia is used.”

Myth #2: You Should Only Pull a Tooth as a Last Resort

Fact: While saving a natural tooth is always ideal, there are times when removal is the healthiest option. Severe decay, advanced gum disease, impacted wisdom teeth, or traumatic injury may leave a tooth beyond repair.

In such cases, extracting the tooth prevents infection, relieves pain, and makes room for future restorative options—like a dental implant, bridge, or denture.

“A problematic tooth can cause more damage if left untreated, including abscesses, bone loss, and spreading infection,” says Dr. Mitzi Morris, who has decades of experience in restorative dentistry in Roswell.

Myth #3: Tooth Extraction Recovery Takes Weeks

Fact: Most patients feel back to normal within a few days. While full healing of the extraction site may take 1–2 weeks, modern techniques promote faster recovery and less downtime.

Following Dr. Morris’ post-op instructions—like avoiding straws, not smoking, and sticking to soft foods—will keep healing on track.

Myth #4: Everyone Gets Dry Socket

Fact: Dry socket is a painful condition where the protective blood clot in the socket dissolves or dislodges too early. It affects only 2% to 5% of extraction patients, according to the Journal of the Canadian Dental Association.

With proper aftercare and instructions from your Roswell dentist, dry socket is completely preventable. Dr. Morris also uses advanced extraction techniques to reduce trauma and help lower your risk.

Myth #5: Removing One Tooth Will Ruin Your Smile

Fact: A single extraction doesn’t mean your smile is doomed—but doing nothing afterward can lead to problems. Teeth naturally shift over time when a space is left unfilled. That’s why Dr. Morris will discuss tooth replacement options such as a dental implant or bridge to maintain your smile, bite, and facial structure.

Myth #6: Wisdom Teeth Only Need to Be Removed If They Hurt

Fact: Impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth can damage neighboring teeth, cause infections, or create cysts—often before symptoms start. That’s why routine exams and dental X-rays are crucial in your late teens and early twenties.

At her Roswell practice, Dr. Morris evaluates wisdom teeth early and creates a personalized plan to prevent complications before they arise.

“Waiting until wisdom teeth hurt is often too late. Proactive removal can save you from more serious issues down the road,” explains Dr. Morris.

Myth #7: All Dentists Perform Extractions the Same Way

Fact: Experience, technology, and technique matter. Dr. Mitzi Morris combines digital imaging, precision surgical tools, and decades of dental expertise to deliver comfortable, efficient tooth removal. Her Roswell office is also equipped to handle complex cases, including broken teeth and extractions prior to orthodontic or implant treatment.

Choosing a dentist who values patient comfort, understands your medical history, and customizes treatment to your needs makes all the difference.

Why Roswell Patients Trust Dr. Mitzi Morris for Tooth Extractions

  • Comprehensive Consultation: Thorough exams and digital X-rays ensure that extraction is the right option
  • Modern Comfort Techniques: Local anesthesia and sedation options for a relaxed, pain-free procedure
  • Minimally Invasive Approach: Gentle removal with less trauma to surrounding tissues
  • Custom Recovery Guidance: Instructions and follow-up care to promote fast healing
  • Tooth Replacement Options: Bridges, dentures, and implants available under one roof

Located in the heart of Roswell, GA, our dental office serves patients from Alpharetta, East Cobb, and the greater North Atlanta area with personalized, high-tech care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions

  • How do I know if I need a tooth extraction? If a tooth is severely decayed, infected, fractured below the gum line, or impacted, extraction may be necessary. Dr. Morris will evaluate your tooth with X-rays and a clinical exam to determine the best course of action.
  • Is a tooth extraction safe? Yes. When performed by an experienced dentist using modern techniques, tooth extractions are a safe and routine procedure with low risk of complications.
  • Will I need a replacement after extraction? In many cases, yes—especially for front or chewing teeth. Dr. Morris will discuss restorative options like implants or bridges during your consultation.
  • What foods can I eat after the procedure? Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies (no straw), and scrambled eggs for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods until the site heals.
  • How long should I wait to return to normal activities? Most patients resume normal activities within 24–72 hours, depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing.

Protect Your Smile with Expert Tooth Extractions in Roswell

Tooth extractions don’t have to be intimidating. At Mitzi Morris, DMD, PC, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to make every procedure as smooth as possible. Whether you’re dealing with a damaged tooth, impacted wisdom teeth, or preparing for restorative work, you can count on our Roswell dental team.

Contact our Roswell office today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.

Posted on behalf of Mitzi D. Morris

1297 Hembree Rd Suite 202
Roswell, GA 30076

Phone: 678-459-2990

Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Our Patient Reviews

Mitzi D. Morris, DMD, PC

4.8/ 5.0

Based on 44 reviews

  • Dr. Morris is an excellent dentist. Her ability to relate to her patients makes her a stand-out amongst those in her profession. She practices dentistry with superior technique and care. Her staff is friendly, helpful, and accommodating. I feel she hires only the best! One special mention: I suffer from panic attacks at times- along with claustrophobia. Dr. Morris is the first dentist I have ever had who helped calm my fears. Thus, my experience exceeded expectations! Great service!

    Cathy Q
  • Definitely would recommend Dr. Morris to anyone. She has been my dentist for over 8 years! Dr. Morris is extremely personable and is serious about the completing the best care possible. Great established dental team! Very accommodating to your schedule.

    Kelly T
  • Great and very educational experience. Compared to my last two dentists this experience blows them both out of the water. The staff is very friendly, and very helpful. I had to go in for a total of four visits a few weeks apart from each other. They made me feel very comfortable the entire time and kept making sure I was pleased. Getting a deep cleaning went very smoothly. It was also brought to my attention that the way I was flossing was incorrect. And have since changed methods. I worked specifically with Dr. Morris. She was very nice, and took the time to explain things. Which is a huge plus for me. Dr. Morris and the staff members worked effortlessly together. I was comfortable enough to sit back and relax, strangely enough, while having cavities drilled and fillings put in. Billing and scheduling appointments, as well as follow up for confirmation of upcoming appointments was very easy. I will say my favorite part of the experience was how friendly of an environment the staff has created. That alone is deserving of a 5 star review, and the rest is honestly icing on the cake. I highly recommend this practice on all fronts and will continue using them!

    Eric F
  • I transferred from a long-term and very good relationship with my former dentist because of a move, and I was a little apprehensive about a new dentist. Dr. Morris has been great. She is friendly, patient-concerned and the office is new, comfortable and clean. Everyone seems to enjoy working there. I feel like I'm in good hands!

    Christopher P
  • Dr. Morris and her staff are very professional. Additionally, she as well as her staff have an excellent "bedside manner." The office is new and well equipped. If one has an appointment and an earlier one opens up, Dr. Morris offers it to her patients as she did with my last appointment.

    David G
  • I have never met a staff so nice and charming. This staff will make you feel comfortable and relaxed in Dr. Morris's Spa like office and everyone is professional and approachable too. Andrea R. explained the process of my appointment and procedures and is definitely a highly-educated and thorough dental hygenist -- SHE IS A ROCKSTAR. I'm so glad that Dr. Morris and her dental team have been my "go-to" for the last 5 years, and I wont be going anywhere else! Overall - A++ Dr. Morris...highly recommended to my family and friends!!!

    Adam O
  • I've been a patient of Dr. Mitzi Morris for many years, and recommend her without reservation. The office is modern. clean and spacious. The staff has always been welcoming and very helpful. And the women who work for her as dental technicians are fantastic; they do a professional and effective deep cleaning, but with a careful, gentle touch. It is clear to me that Dr. Morris reads her professional journals and upgrades her practice to stay very current with the latest best practices in dentistry. (I have had some dentists who stopped updating their practices after leaving dental school!) With Dr. Morris you can count on receiving the very latest dental technology. Her prices are very fair, and I have never been surprised by an unexpected cost or had problems with insurance not covering services rendered.

    Bruce C
  • I have never experienced an office so down to earth, so outgoing and so willing to satisfy. If you've grown to dread the dentist then lay down your sword and give this office a shot.

    Marc Mamane

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Phone

678-459-2990

Office Hours

Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

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Address

1297 Hembree Rd Suite 202
Roswell, GA 30076

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