Serving patients across the Loop, Millennium Park, River North, and downtown Chicago.
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What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction removes a tooth that can't be saved, gently and comfortably. At Dentistry at Millennium Park, we only recommend it as a last resort, after exploring every way to save your tooth first. We perform simple extractions in our Chicago office and refer complex or impacted teeth to a trusted oral surgeon.

How a Tooth Extraction Works

A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket. A simple extraction, which is what we perform here, removes a tooth that's fully visible above the gumline by gently loosening it and lifting it out, no surgery required. We make sure you're fully numb and comfortable throughout.

We believe in saving teeth whenever possible. Before recommending an extraction, we explore every option to preserve your tooth, such as a filling, a crown, gum treatment, or a referral for root canal therapy. We only suggest removing a tooth when it genuinely can't be saved.

Some teeth, especially impacted teeth and most wisdom teeth, need surgical removal. Those are best handled by a specialist, so we'll refer you to a trusted oral surgeon and help coordinate your care.

A gentle, simple tooth extraction
A gentle, simple tooth extraction
Dentistry at Millennium Park
A dentist gently performing a simple tooth extraction in Chicago

When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?

An extraction may be necessary when a tooth can't be saved, such as when you have:

  • A tooth too decayed or damaged to repair
  • Advanced gum disease that has loosened a tooth
  • A painful infection that can't be resolved another way
  • Severe crowding (sometimes as part of orthodontic care)
  • A stubborn baby tooth that won't come out on its own
  • A tooth that needs removing to prepare for dentures

Note: We'll always tell you honestly whether a tooth can be saved, and only recommend removal when it's truly the best option for your health.

Signs You May Need an Extraction

It's worth getting checked promptly if you have:

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Severe or persistent tooth pain

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A badly broken or cracked tooth

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A loose adult tooth

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Significant swelling or signs of infection

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A tooth a dentist has said can't be saved

Tooth Extractions Near Millennium Park, Chicago

Our practice is on the 18th floor at 8 S Michigan Ave, steps from Millennium Park and the heart of the Loop, easy to reach when you have a painful tooth that needs attention.

We welcome patients from across downtown Chicago, including the Loop, River North, South Loop, and West Loop, with convenient access by CTA, Metra at Millennium Station, and nearby parking.

Chicago's Loop near Millennium Park

Benefits of a Timely Extraction

01

Relieves pain

Removes the source of a painful or infected tooth.

02

Protects your health

Stops infection or decay from spreading.

03

Protects other teeth

Prevents a failing tooth from affecting its neighbors.

04

Gentle and comfortable

Performed with thorough numbing and care.

05

A clear path forward

We'll discuss replacing the tooth when needed.

06

Often quick

A simple extraction is usually a short visit.

What to Expect

A simple extraction is straightforward, and we keep you comfortable from start to finish.

Comfort note: Our comfort menu (noise-canceling headphones, Netflix, blankets, and more) is here to help you relax.

Chicago skyline

How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost in Chicago?

The cost depends on the tooth and how straightforward the extraction is. Extractions are often covered in part by dental insurance. We're in-network with most major PPOs and will review your specific benefits with you before treatment.

To keep care manageable, we offer financing through CareCredit and Cherry, and members of our in-house membership plan receive 15% off treatments. We'll always give you a clear estimate up front.

A consultation about veneers at Dentistry at Millennium Park

What to Consider, and Replacing Your Tooth

A simple extraction is safe and routine, with only minor risks like temporary bleeding, swelling, or, occasionally, a dry socket, which is why following the aftercare instructions matters. Most people heal comfortably within a few days.

If the removed tooth isn't a wisdom tooth, it's usually best to replace it, since a gap can let nearby teeth drift and affect your bite. We'll talk through replacement options such as a dental bridge, an implant restoration, or a denture, so you can decide what's right for you. And remember, for impacted teeth or most wisdom teeth, we'll refer you to a trusted oral surgeon for surgical removal.

Why Choose Dentistry at Millennium Park for Extractions?

Nobody looks forward to having a tooth removed, so we make it as gentle and stress-free as possible. We're conservative by nature so we'll always try to save your tooth first, and when an extraction is truly needed, we focus on your comfort and a smooth recovery.

As a proudly woman-owned, all-female practice in the heart of the Loop, led by a woman of color, we pair modern dentistry with genuine, personal care.

Dr. Nanditha A. Ranganathan, DDS, Founder and Lead Dentist

Reviewed by Dr. Nanditha A. Ranganathan, DDS

Founder & Lead Dentist, Dentistry at Millennium Park. 

Last updated: June 2026

Meet Dr. Ranganathan
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

For most people, no. We fully numb the area first, so you should feel pressure but not pain during a simple extraction. Some soreness afterward is normal and usually settles within a few days with the aftercare we provide.

We perform simple extractions of teeth that are fully above the gumline. Impacted teeth and most wisdom teeth need surgical removal, so we refer those to a trusted oral surgeon and help coordinate your care.

Usually, yes, unless it's a wisdom tooth. Replacing a missing tooth keeps your other teeth from shifting and protects your bite. We'll discuss options like a bridge, implant restoration, or denture.

Most people heal comfortably within a few days. Bite gently on the gauze, rest, eat soft foods, and avoid straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing to protect the site. We'll give you complete aftercare instructions.

It depends on the tooth, and extractions are often partially covered by dental insurance. We're in-network with most major PPOs, offer financing and a 15% member discount, and we'll give you a clear estimate first.

At our office on the 18th floor of 8 S Michigan Ave, steps from Millennium Park and the Loop. We welcome patients from across downtown Chicago. Call or text (224) 249-5977 or book online.

In Pain? Let's Take a Look.

If you have a painful or damaged tooth, the sooner we see you, the more options you'll have, and we'll always try to save it first. Call or text us at (224) 249-5977 or book online, and we'll take gentle care of you.

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