Extractions

Why might I need a tooth pulled?

Permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but for many reasons, this doesn't always happen. For example, you may need to have a tooth extracted because it is too severely damaged to keep. Lifestyle choices, trauma, and decay can all lead to needing a tooth pulled.

Other reasons for extractions include:

• Risk of infection from a failed root canal
• Risk of infection during chemotherapy or an organ transplant
• Advanced gum (periodontal) disease
• Extra or crowded teeth
• No room for third molars (wisdom teeth)

What is the procedure for extraction?

There are two types of extractions: a simple extraction and a surgical extraction. A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is visible in your mouth. In a simple extraction, a highly experienced dentist at California Happy Teeth Family Dentistry will loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator and gently remove it with dental forceps.

A surgical extraction is more complex. The tooth may have been broken off at your gum line, or it hasn’t yet come through the surface of your gums, as is typical with wisdom teeth. To perform a surgical extraction the dentist will need to make a small cut in your gum to lift the tooth out. Sometimes the tooth needs to be sectioned, or cut into smaller pieces, to be removed. It may also be necessary to remove some of the bone around the affected tooth.

In both a simple extraction and surgical extraction, your dentist gives you a local anesthetic, so you don’t feel any pain. If multiple teeth are being extracted at the same appointment, as is common with wisdom teeth extraction, your dentist might give you a general anesthetic. You'll feel no pain and will sleep through the procedure.

What is the timeline for healing from a tooth extraction?

Based on how many teeth you had taken out and your individual condition, healing usually takes one or two weeks. You'll experience new gum tissue and bone growth where your teeth used to be. You may encounter difficulty chewing or general aches and pains on your way to recovery, depending on the extent of your dental surgery.

Because everyone's circumstances are different, contact California Happy Teeth Family Dentistry and schedule a consultation so you can learn about your options plus any necessary post-procedure treatments such as crowns or dental implants.

Call today or schedule over the web using the booking tool.