I understand that hearing the words “tooth extraction” can be concerning. My priority is always to save your natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are times when removing a tooth is the best, or even only, option to protect your overall oral health, alleviate pain, and prevent more serious problems. When an extraction is necessary, you can trust my team and me to provide the gentlest, most comfortable care right here in Woodland Hills.
While I always aim to preserve your natural smile, certain situations can make tooth extraction the most beneficial course of action. My goal is to ensure you understand why an extraction is being recommended and what to expect. Common reasons for tooth extraction include:
- Severe Decay: If a cavity is so extensive that it has destroyed too much tooth structure to be repaired with a filling or crown.
- Advanced Periodontal (Gum) Disease: When gum disease has progressed to the point where it has severely damaged the bone and tissues supporting the tooth, causing it to become very loose.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth often don’t have enough room to erupt properly, leading to pain, infection, or damage to neighboring teeth.
- Crowding: In some cases, teeth may be extracted to prepare for orthodontic treatment (braces or aligners) to create space for proper tooth alignment.
- Infection: If an infection has spread too far into the tooth or bone to be treated effectively with a root canal or antibiotics.
- Trauma or Injury: A tooth that has been severely fractured or damaged beyond repair due to an accident.
My team and I are dedicated to making your tooth extraction experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here’s generally what you can expect when you come to my Woodland Hills dental office for an extraction:
- Thorough Examination and X-rays: I’ll begin by examining the tooth and taking detailed X-rays to assess its position, the surrounding bone, and any potential complexities.
- Discussion and Treatment Plan: We’ll discuss why the extraction is necessary, what the procedure involves, and go over your options for tooth replacement if applicable (like dental implants or bridges). I’ll answer all your questions.
- Anesthesia and Sedation: Your comfort is paramount. I will administer a local anesthetic to thoroughly numb the area, ensuring you feel no pain during the procedure. For patients who feel anxious, we can also discuss various sedation options to help you relax.
- The Extraction: Using specialized instruments, I will carefully and gently loosen the tooth and remove it. My technique is designed to minimize discomfort and trauma to the surrounding tissues.
- Post-Extraction Care: Once the tooth is removed, I’ll provide you with detailed instructions for at-home care, including managing any discomfort, reducing swelling, and promoting proper healing. I’ll also schedule any necessary follow-up appointments.
DR. EDMOND
AHDOOT
When a tooth needs to come out, you want a dentist who combines skill with genuine care. Here’s why patients in Woodland Hills, CA choose Smiles By Eddie for tooth extractions:
- Gentle & Experienced Care: I perform tooth extractions with precision and a compassionate touch, aiming to make the process as comfortable as possible. I have extensive experience in this area, ensuring you’re in capable hands.
- Your Comfort is My Priority: From the moment you step into my Woodland Hills dental office, my team and I focus on your comfort. We offer various options to help you relax, even if you feel nervous about the procedure.
- Clear Communication: I believe in keeping you fully informed. I’ll explain every step of the process, ensuring you understand why the extraction is needed and what to expect during recovery.
- Comprehensive Follow-Up: After your extraction, I’ll provide thorough post-operative instructions and am always available to answer questions during your healing process. I’ll also discuss options for replacing the missing tooth, if appropriate.
- Conveniently Located: Our practice is easily accessible for all residents of Woodland Hills and our surrounding communities, making it simple to manage your appointment and follow-up care.
FAQ
I will thoroughly numb the area with local anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the actual extraction. You might feel some pressure, but no sharpness or pain. We also have sedation options if you’re feeling anxious.
Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing, but most people feel significantly better within a few days. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to help speed up your recovery.
For the first few days, stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the extraction site.
It’s generally recommended to avoid strenuous physical activity for at least 24-48 hours after an extraction to prevent dislodging the blood clot that forms in the socket, which is crucial for healing.
It depends on the location of the extracted tooth. For back teeth, it might not be strictly necessary, but for front teeth or if multiple teeth are extracted, I’ll discuss options like dental implants, bridges, or dentures to restore your smile and bite function.
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site dislodges too soon, exposing the bone. To avoid it, don’t smoke, don’t use straws, avoid vigorous rinsing, and follow all post-operative instructions carefully.
Applying an ice pack to your cheek over the extraction site for 15-20 minutes at a time (on/off) during the first 24 hours can help reduce swelling.
You can gently brush the rest of your teeth, but avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, you can carefully brush the area, but avoid direct contact with the socket for several days
Wisdom tooth extractions can sometimes be more complex, especially if the teeth are impacted (stuck beneath the gum line or bone). However, the general principles of care and comfort remain the same.
I understand dental anxiety. We offer various sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral conscious sedation, to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your procedure. We can discuss which option is best for you during your consultation.
