Extractions
Your teeth are meant to last your lifetime, but there are times when extraction is the only viable option. We, at PEARLIQUE, are committed to providing our patients with quality, comfortable dental care each and every time they step through our doors. You can always count on us!
Do I Need A Tooth Extraction?
Some common reasons we perform teeth extractions are infections that cannot be resolved using treatments such as antibiotics or root canal therapy, tooth structure too damaged by cavities or fracture for repair, or advanced periodontal disease. There are also times we need to extract teeth blocking permanent ones from coming in correctly. Tooth removal may also be required as a part of orthodontic treatments to help correct a crowded mouth, or to make room for remaining teeth to shift into place.
One of the most common dental surgeries performed is the removal of wisdom teeth, otherwise known as third molars. If they are decayed, infected, or impacted, they will need extraction.
What Should You Expect
Before your oral surgery, we will discuss your sedation options. You may opt for inhaled or oral sedation, or even general anesthesia when indicated. We will also numb the area with a local anesthetic for your comfort.
There are two types of extractions: simple, and surgical. We usually perform simple extractions when the tooth is visible and accessible. This involves first loosening the tooth with an instrument called an elevator, then using forceps to extract it.
Surgical extractions, on the other hand, involve removing teeth not easily accessible due to breaking under your gum or not fully erupting. In this case, we may need to make a small incision to access the tooth, then we use forceps to loosen and remove it. We may need to remove the tooth in pieces depending on its condition.
Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Wisdom teeth begin to erupt in most people roughly around the age of twenty. Very often, these superfluous molars emerge at an incorrect angle, causing alignment issues, pain, and even disease. The best course of action is simply to have them removed. The removal process is typically very easy and can be done in a number of ways. Depending on the tooth's stage of development and angle of emergence, the surgeon may either remove the tooth in pieces or as a whole. The surgery is finished very quickly and requires little downtime afterward
After Tooth Extraction
Some patients experience some discomfort after extraction. In the event you do, apply an ice pack to the area to reduce any swelling or pain, and use your prescribed medication as per instructions. Make sure to avoid spitting forcefully, drinking through a straw, or smoking for 48 hours following the procedure to prevent dislodging the clot forming in the tooth socket. If this occurs, it may result in a painful condition called dry socket.
Your healing process may take a week or two. Over time, the gap left by a missing tooth may cause the surrounding teeth to shift, potentially creating problems. We may recommend replacing the extracted tooth with a dental implant or a bridge.
Quality Care Near Me
Contact us at PEARLIQUE in the Los Angeles area to learn more about tooth extractions along with all the quality services we offer. Our highly trained and experienced team is committed to your health, comfort, and well-being. We look forward to helping you enjoy a healthy smile for a lifetime.
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