Tooth Extractions Beverly Hills

Tooth extractions are performed daily and are one of the most common dental procedures. A tooth extraction is necessary if a tooth is severely decayed or damaged and cannot be repaired, or if it causes pain that does not respond to medication or further dental treatment. There are other reasons that a tooth extraction may be necessary, including:

Overcrowding of teeth
In preparation for orthodontic treatment
In preparation for jaw surgery
An impacted tooth
A partially erupted tooth
A loose tooth due to gum disease
Wisdom teeth removal

Types of Tooth Extraction

Traditional Extraction

When a tooth is broken, decayed, or partially erupted, a traditional extraction can be performed. Dr. Jamison gently loosens the tooth and removes it using specially designed dental instruments.

Surgical Extraction

If a tooth is impacted (trapped in the bone or gumline), Dr. Jamison will make an incision in the gums to expose the tooth. He then cuts the tooth into pieces (a process called sectioning) before removing each piece and suturing the gum tissue in place.

The Extraction Process

During the extraction, Dr. Jamison will numb the tooth, jawbone, and surrounding gums with a local anesthetic. During the extraction process, it is common to feel pressure. Mild yet firm pressure is needed to gently rock the tooth back and forth to widen the socket for removal. You may feel the pressure, but it will be without pain, as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves, stopping the transmission of pain. In some cases, an anesthesiologist can be utilized if general anesthesia is needed for patient comfort.

Tooth Extractions FAQs

Do tooth extractions hurt?

No. When performing tooth extractions, we numb the area before removing the tooth. You may experience some mild discomfort following the procedure, but this typically subsides within the first 24 – 48 hours and can be managed using Tylenol, ice, and / or additional prescription pain medication.

What’s the recovery like?

You may experience some mild bleeding, swelling, and discomfort during the first 24-48 hours after a tooth extraction. An over-the-counter / prescription pain reliever should alleviate any pain, and an ice pack will help reduce the swelling. Within a few weeks, new gum tissue should grow over the empty socket with complete healing in approximately 4-6 weeks.

Are there any restrictions following a tooth extraction?

On the first day, you will be on a liquid / very soft diet and should avoid spitting, rinsing, and creating any suction. You should also avoid strenuous exercise, as that can increase bleeding. For the following 3-5 days, a soft diet is recommended avoiding nuts, seeds, crusty breads, and raw, hard vegetables. After about 7-10 days, you can re-introduce your normal diet.

Are there any future complications?

The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.

To avoid these complications, in most cases, Dr. Jamison will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth, most likely utilizing an implant.

When should I contact my dentist?

If you experience pain after your tooth is extracted, contact our office immediately. There may be certain situations that may require an examination and additional treatment. Often times simple changes or additions to home care can alleviate most issues to ensure proper healing.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jamison to discuss a possible extraction, please call our office at 310-274-8811 to schedule an appointment today.