Tooth Extractions

What are tooth extractions?

Tooth extractions involve removing a damaged, decayed, or infected tooth from its socket in your jawbone. The two main types of tooth extractions are:

Simple 

Dr. Annie performs a simple extraction when the affected tooth is visible in your mouth and easily accessible. This uncomplicated procedure usually uses local anesthesia, numbing the area around your tooth for a painless experience. 

After gently loosening your tooth with a dental elevator, she carefully extracts it from the socket. Most simple extractions don’t require stitches, so your recovery is quick.

Surgical

Surgical extractions are more complex. They’re necessary when Dr. Annie can’t easily access your tooth, often because it’s partially or fully trapped beneath your gumline. With several sedation dentistry options, including oral conscious sedation, Burbank Dental Studio ensures that you can undergo surgical extractions comfortably.

When are tooth extractions necessary?

Dr. Annie may recommend tooth extractions if you have:

• Deep tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Crowded teeth
• Impacted wisdom teeth
• Irreparable tooth damage
• Infection
• Trauma or injury to the tooth

Extractions are often necessary to prepare your teeth for orthodontic treatment or restorative dental procedures, like bridges or implants.

What happens during surgical tooth extractions?

Before a surgical tooth extraction, Dr. Annie administers an anesthetic to ensure you remain comfortable. She then makes an incision in the gum to access the tooth and may need to section it for easier removal. Using specialized instruments, she gently extracts the tooth and any surrounding tissues or bone if necessary. 

Dr. Annie fully cleans and sanitizes the area before applying stitches to close the incision. Throughout the process, the entire dental team prioritizes your comfort and safety, providing detailed post-extraction care instructions to facilitate a smooth recovery.

Is there downtime after surgical tooth extractions?

Yes, there is typically some downtime after surgical tooth extractions. You can expect swelling, discomfort, and bleeding at the extraction site immediately after the procedure. Your Burbank Dental Studio team provides specific post-operative care instructions, including recommendations for rest, ice application, and avoiding certain activities. 

Depending on the complexity of the extraction, you may need to take it easy for a day or more to facilitate proper healing. It's essential to follow Dr. Annie’s guidance to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Call Burbank Dental Studio today or use the online booking tool to schedule a tooth extraction consultation.