Tooth Extractions Dentist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA

A tooth extraction is one of the many dental procedures offered at Le Chic Dentist. This procedure entails the full removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Our experienced dental professionals, using a variety of anesthesia options, perform this procedure when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or infected and cannot be repaired or saved.

At Le Chic Dentist, we prioritize every patient’s comfort and safety throughout the entire extraction procedure. This begins with a thorough examination of the tooth, usually involving an X-ray, and a review of the patient’s medical history to prevent complications.

The extraction procedure typically involves:

• Local anesthesia: The surrounding area of the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic to reduce pain.

• Incision (if necessary): If needed, incised in the gum to access the tooth.

• Tooth removal: Our dental professionals use a specialized tool to loosen the tooth from its socket. Once the tooth is loose enough, forceps are used to remove the tooth.

• Tooth cleaning: The socket is cleaned and inspected for any remaining fragments of the tooth or other debris.

• Suturing (optional): If an incision was made, it may be necessary to stitch it closed to promote healing. In certain instances, stitches may be required to close the gum tissue over the extraction site.

While a tooth extraction is generally a safe procedure, it can occasionally lead to complications such as infection, dry socket, or damage to nearby teeth. At Le Chic Dentist, we ensure that all possible risks and benefits are thoroughly discussed prior to the procedure.

Severe dental caries is a common reason for tooth extraction. If tooth decay has damaged the majority of the tooth structure and reached the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth, causing an infection, extraction might be the only viable solution. At Le Chic Dentist, we strive to provide a pain-free and comfortable extraction process for these patients.

Another problem that often leads to tooth extraction is advanced periodontal disease. It affects the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. When gum disease has reached a severe stage, causing significant bone loss and loosening of the teeth, the Le Chic Dentist team may recommend extraction to prevent further complications.

To create more space in a patient’s mouth, tooth extraction may be necessary in cases of overcrowding. This is particularly common during orthodontic treatment. Similarly, impacted teeth that do not have enough space to emerge or grow normally, like wisdom teeth, might need to be extracted at Le Chic Dentist to alleviate pain and prevent potential oral health issues.

In certain situations, tooth extractions may be done to enhance the appearance of your smile. We are dedicated to helping you achieve your ideal smile.

Lastly, patients undergoing certain medical treatments or with specific health concerns might need tooth extractions. For example, those receiving chemotherapy or organ transplantation, or those with heart disease, might need to have compromised teeth removed to ensure oral health and prevent potential complications.

Many of our patients have concerns about the potential pain associated with tooth extraction. It is important to note that while the procedure itself should not cause pain due to the use of local or general anesthesia, there may still be a certain level of discomfort involved.

Before your extraction, one of our experienced dentists or oral surgeons will administer a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. During the procedure you may not be able to feel any pain, but you may experience some pressure as the tooth is gently removed. While the anesthetic prevents pain, you might sense pressure as the tooth is loosened from its socket.

Post-extraction, once the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some pain and discomfort. The intensity of pain can differ depending on factors like the location and size of the extracted tooth, as well as the patient’s personal pain tolerance. Level of pain will also vary on the complexity of the extraction. Simple extractions typically cause minimal discomfort, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. More complex procedures, like the removal of impacted teeth, may result in more discomfort and may require a prescription pain medication.

Swelling, soreness, and residual bleeding in the days following the extraction are common. Our team at Le Chic Dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions to help manage pain and promote healing. Use ice packs to reduce swelling, eat soft foods, and avoid strenuous activity. Additionally, pain after tooth extraction can also be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, like Ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen. Stronger pain-reducing medication is prescribed for some cases. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help clean the area and reduce inflammation.

The initial healing period for simple extractions generally lasts about two to four days, during which new bone and gum tissue starts to grow into the gap left by the removed tooth. Discomfort and swelling, which can range from mild to moderate, usually subside within a few days. We recommend patients consume soft foods for the first 24-48 hours, gradually transitioning to regular foods as discomfort decreases.

Surgical extractions, which require the removal of a tooth that is impacted, hidden below the gum line, or has multiple roots, need a longer healing time of approximately seven to ten days. At Le Chic Dentist, we are experienced in performing these complex procedures, ensuring the least possible discomfort.

Regardless of the type of extraction, the complete healing of the extraction site may take several months. This includes complete closure of the wound and the full growth of the bone.

Certain factors may influence the exact duration of the healing process. At Le Chic Dentist, we provide comprehensive post-procedure instructions on rest, pain management, and oral hygiene to ensure optimal recovery. Infections can significantly prolong recovery time and require additional treatment, so it’s crucial to follow these guidelines.

While the initial recovery from a tooth extraction typically takes one to two weeks for surgical extractions and two to four days for simple extractions, full healing can take several months. Regular check-ups are crucial after the procedure to look at the healing process and detect any potential complications early.

The nature of extraction is a primary determinant. Simple extractions, where the tooth has fully emerged from the gum and can be removed in one piece, typically cost less. The fee for this might range from $75 to $200 per tooth (approximately). However, the cost can increase if the extraction is surgical, which involves removing a tooth that is broken, has not fully emerged from the gum, or has roots that are not straight. This can cost between $200 and $600 per tooth.

The number and location of the teeth that need to be extracted also affect the cost. For example, extracting molars is generally more complex and expensive than removing incisors or canines.

Anesthesia cost also impacts the cost. The options range from local to nitrous oxide or general anesthesia, and the fee is usually charged separately.

Dental insurance may cover part, if not all, of the extraction cost. The amount of coverage depends on your specific policy. However, some plans only cover a certain percentage of the cost, while others have a cap on the amount they will pay per year.

Additional costs may include an initial consultation, x-rays, and follow-up visits. More complex extractions involving impacted teeth, root fractures, or extensive bone removal are more challenging and therefore more expensive. The need for additional procedures, such as bone grafting or sinus lift, can add to the overall cost.

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Le Chic Dentist can help prevent tooth decay and other problems that may eventually require tooth extractions. By practicing good oral hygiene and promptly addressing dental problems, you can reduce the likelihood of needing this procedure and save money in the long run. Visit us today to get professional dental care. We serve patients from Los Angeles CA, Santa Monica CA, Inglewood CA, Marina Del Rey CA, Beverly Hills CA, El Segundo CA, and BEYOND!