Extractions In Los Angeles, CA

Extraction in Los Angeles, CA, is a dental procedure involving the removal of one or more teeth from the mouth. This intervention becomes necessary for various reasons, including severe tooth decay or damage beyond repair, overcrowding of teeth causing misalignment or impaction, gum disease leading to tooth instability, or as part of orthodontic treatment to create space for proper alignment. Extraction aims to alleviate pain, prevent infection, preserve oral health, and facilitate the overall alignment and function of the remaining teeth and jaws by removing the affected tooth or teeth.

When Are Extractions Necessary? 

• Extraction may be the only viable option to prevent infection and preserve oral health when a tooth is extensively decayed or damaged beyond repair. 

• In severe cases of crowding or misalignment, extracting one or more teeth may be necessary to create space and facilitate orthodontic treatment. 

• Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, may become impacted (trapped beneath the gums) due to lack of space in the jaw. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth, necessitating extraction. 

• Advanced periodontal (gum) disease can cause teeth to become loose and unstable. In some cases, extraction may be recommended to prevent the spread of infection and preserve the health of surrounding teeth and gums. 

• If a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment becomes reinfected or fails to heal correctly, extraction may be necessary to alleviate pain and prevent further complications. Contact us today to learn more!

Types of Dental Extractions 

Simple Extraction

Simple extraction is a routine dental procedure performed on teeth that are fully erupted, visible in the mouth, and accessible for removal without surgical intervention. During a simple extraction, the dentist uses specialized instruments, such as forceps, to grasp the tooth and gently loosen it from its socket in the jawbone. Once sufficiently loosened, the tooth is carefully lifted out of the socket.

Simple extractions are quick and straightforward, causing minimal discomfort and post-operative pain. They are commonly used to remove teeth that are severely decayed, damaged, or no longer functional, restoring oral health and function. Contact us today to learn more!

Benefits:

• Relatively quick and straightforward procedure

• Minimal discomfort and post-operative pain

• Lower risk of complications compared to surgical extractions

• Cost-effective treatment option

Surgical Extraction

A surgical extraction is a dental procedure performed on teeth that are partially or fully impacted, submerged in the jawbone, or otherwise inaccessible for removal through a simple extraction. During a surgical extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon makes an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and may need to remove bone tissue or section the tooth into smaller pieces for extraction.

This type of extraction is often performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort. Surgical extractions are necessary for addressing impacted wisdom teeth, severely damaged teeth, or teeth with complex root structures, and they typically require a longer recovery period than simple extractions. 

Benefits:

• Allows access to teeth that are difficult to reach or fully submerged in the jawbone

• Enables the removal of multiple teeth or teeth with complex root structures

• Reduces the risk of damage to surrounding tissues and structures during extraction

• Can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation for patient comfort

The Extraction Process 

Before the Extraction 

Assessment

Our dentist will thoroughly examine the affected tooth, reviewing your medical history and possibly taking X-rays to assess the tooth's position and surrounding structures. 

Treatment Plan

Based on the assessment, our dentist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, including the type of anesthesia or sedation to be used during the procedure. 

Preparation

Before the extraction, you may be instructed to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period, especially if you'll be receiving sedation or general anesthesia. 

During the Extraction 

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is typically administered to numb the area around the tooth being extracted, ensuring your comfort during the procedure. In some cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be used, especially for more complex extractions or for patients with dental anxiety. 

Extraction

Using specialized instruments such as forceps or elevators, the dentist will carefully loosen the tooth from its socket in the jawbone and gently remove it. Sometimes, the tooth must be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. 

Control Bleeding

Once the tooth has been extracted, gauze will be placed over the socket to control bleeding. You may be asked to bite down on the gauze to apply pressure and promote blood clot formation. 

Closure

The extraction site will often be left open to heal naturally. However, if the extraction involves a surgical procedure or multiple teeth, stitches may be used to close the wound. 

After the Extraction 

Recovery Room

After the procedure, you'll be allowed to rest in a recovery area until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. This is also a time for the dental team to provide post-operative instructions and address any questions or concerns you may have. 

Pain Management

It's normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and mild bleeding following a tooth extraction. Our dentist in Los Angeles, CA may prescribe pain relievers and recommend applying ice packs to the affected area to help alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling. 

Dietary Restrictions

For the first few days after the extraction, stick to soft foods and liquids to avoid irritating the extraction site and support healing. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that may cause discomfort or disrupt the blood clot. 

Oral Hygiene

Follow our dentist's instructions for caring for the extraction site to promote healing and prevent infection. This may include gently rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater and avoiding vigorous rinsing or brushing around the extraction site. 

Follow-Up Appointment

Be sure to attend any follow-up appointments with our dentist to monitor healing and address any concerns or complications. Our dentist may also remove any stitches placed during the extraction and evaluate your progress. 

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that addresses various oral health concerns, from severe decay and damage to impacted wisdom teeth. Visit Kawata Dental Inc. at 12211 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064, or call (310) 826-6123 to determine if a tooth extraction is the right solution for you.