Tooth Extractions in Irvine, CA
A tooth extraction may be needed for a variety of reasons, including, severe tooth decay, advanced gum disease, traumatic injury, or elective i.e. wisdom teeth. If a tooth extraction is needed, it is best to have the procedure completed as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection and onset of more serious problems to your oral or overall health.
Tooth Extractions in Irvine, CA
Our first priority is to preserve natural teeth whenever doing so is healthy and predictable. However, there are situations when removing a tooth may be the best way to protect your oral health.
Irvine Smile Design provides tooth extraction evaluations and treatment for patients with severely damaged, decayed, infected or otherwise problematic teeth. Before recommending an extraction, our team will evaluate the tooth and discuss whether it can reasonably be restored or whether removal is the more appropriate treatment.
Tooth Extractions in Irvine, CA Irvine
Wisdom teeth extraction
The removal of wisdom teeth is a common type of tooth extraction procedure that is completed in order to correct or prevent gum infection, or damage to surrounding teeth. Other serious problems, such as damage to bone tissue from the growth of a cyst may also occur if your jaw is not large enough to accommodate wisdom teeth.
Most problems with the formation of wisdom teeth arise between the ages of 15 and 25. Ideally, if wisdom teeth need to be removed, the procedure should be done in this time period when the roots of the wisdom teeth are not yet fully developed and the jawbone is less dense, making the tooth extraction easier.
The tooth extraction process
Before the tooth extraction process begins, your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the site of extraction and put you at ease during your procedure. If more than a few of your teeth are in need of extraction, general anesthesia may be used, putting you into an unconscious or near-unconscious state during your surgery.
To remove the tooth, your dentist will open up the gum tissue surrounding the tooth to expose and remove the tooth from crown to root. If there is still connective tissue attaching the tooth to the bone, your dentist will first separate the tissue before extracting the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be cut into several pieces prior to extraction.
Once the tooth is removed and gums stitched, it is important to apply pressure to the wound using gauze to stem the bleeding and allow a blood clot to form. Recovery from a tooth extraction is fairly minimal, requiring just a few days of recovery time before you can eat, speak and care for your teeth normally again. For the first 24 hours after your tooth extraction, over the counter or prescription painkillers may be used to reduce any pain following the surgery. In some cases the doctor may prescribe a stronger medication. Application of a cold compress or ice pack outside of your mouth or jaw will also help with any pain or swelling experienced after your surgery. Smoking, sucking through straws, physical activity and aggravation of the tooth extraction site are to be avoided to prevent further damage, dry socket, further bleeding, or infection to the sensitive area.
For more detailed information the dentist will provide you with oral and written post operative instructions.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
A dental extraction may be recommended when a tooth cannot predictably be restored or when keeping it could negatively affect your oral health.
Reasons a tooth may require extraction include:
- Severe tooth decay
- Significant tooth fracture or damage
- Advanced periodontal disease
- Dental infection
- Certain impacted or problematic teeth
- Teeth that cannot be predictably restored
- Specific orthodontic or restorative treatment needs
A dental examination and appropriate imaging are necessary to determine whether extraction is recommended.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
Before treatment, your dentist will evaluate the tooth and surrounding structures and explain what to expect during the procedure.
Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area. The specific extraction technique depends on the location and condition of the tooth and whether it is fully erupted.
After the tooth is removed, our team will provide instructions for caring for the extraction site and supporting normal healing.
Replacing a Tooth After Extraction
If a permanent tooth needs to be removed, replacing it may be important for your long-term oral health, function and appearance.
Depending on the location of the missing tooth and your individual needs, replacement options may include:
- Dental implants
- Implant-supported restorations
- Dental bridges
- Other restorative options
Our team can discuss whether tooth replacement is recommended and which options may be appropriate for you.
TOOTH EXTRACTION FAQs
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area before an extraction. Patients may feel pressure or movement during treatment, but the goal is to keep the procedure as comfortable as possible.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Initial healing commonly occurs over several days, although healing time varies depending on the type of extraction, location of the tooth and individual patient factors. Follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your dentist.
What should I eat after a tooth extraction?
Patients are commonly advised to begin with softer foods and avoid foods that may irritate the extraction site. Your dental team will provide specific post-treatment instructions.
Can I get a dental implant after an extraction?
Many patients can replace an extracted tooth with a dental implant, although timing and candidacy depend on factors such as bone availability, oral health and the reason the tooth was removed. An implant evaluation can determine which approach is appropriate.
What happens if I don’t replace an extracted tooth?
Depending on the tooth’s location, leaving a space may affect chewing, appearance or the position of neighboring teeth. Your dentist can explain whether replacing the tooth is recommended in your situation.
Special Offers
Keep your smile bright and healthy with our new patient offers! Whether you’re insured or not, Irvine Smile Design makes quality dental care affordable and easy — from cleanings and exams covered by insurance for eligible patients to a $99 complete exam, X-rays, and cleaning for those without insurance.