Tooth Extraction in La Jolla – Safe, Comfortable, and Expert Care
An excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist.
At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we prioritize saving your natural teeth whenever possible. However, if your tooth is severely damaged, infected, or causing crowding, a tooth extraction may be necessary to protect your oral health. Our experienced dental team offers gentle and precise tooth extractions for a comfortable experience and a smooth recovery.
Whether you need a simple extraction or a surgical extraction, we offer advanced techniques and sedation options to make the process as stress-free as possible. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been advised to remove a tooth, we’re here to provide expert, compassionate care.
An excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist.
When is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
We focus on preserving teeth through fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy, certain conditions require extraction to maintain oral health:
- ~ Severe Tooth Decay – When a tooth is too damaged for a filling or crown.
- ~ Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis) – When infection destroys bone and gum around the teeth.
- ~ Impacted Wisdom Teeth – When wisdom teeth don't come in properly.
- ~ Severe Tooth Infection (Abscessed Tooth) – To prevent the spread of infection.
- ~ Dental Trauma or Injury – When a tooth is beyond repair.
- ~ Overcrowding – To make space for orthodontic alignment and straightening.
- ~ Broken or Fractured Teeth – When damage extends too far below the gum line.
If you’re unsure whether you need a tooth extraction, we carefully examine and use 3D digital imaging to evaluate your condition and recommend the best course of action.
Types of Tooth Extractions We Perform
At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we provide both simple and surgical extractions; each procedure is tailored to your unique needs for personalized care.
Simple Tooth Extraction
For visible and accessible teeth, we perform a simple extraction using gentle techniques. This procedure is typically done with local anesthesia, and the tooth is carefully loosened and removed with minimal discomfort.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
If a tooth is impacted, broken below the gum line, or requires bone removal, a surgical extraction is necessary. This procedure is common for wisdom teeth or teeth with extensive damage. Surgical extractions may involve incisions, bone removal, or sectioning the tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom teeth often cause pain, crowding, infections, or cysts if they don’t come in properly. We offer wisdom tooth extractions, including impacted wisdom teeth removal, using sedation dentistry to ensure a comfortable experience.
The Tooth Extraction Process
We follow a step-by-step approach to ensure a safe and smooth extraction:
Consultation and Diagnosis
- Comprehensive oral exam with digital X-rays and 3D imaging.
- Evaluation of the affected tooth and surrounding bone.
- Discussion of treatment options, including sedation choices for comfort.
Anesthesia and Sedation
- Local anesthesia is given to carefully numb the area.
- Sedation options (such as nitrous oxide or IV sedation) are available if you’re anxious about the procedure.
Tooth Removal
- For simple extractions, the tooth is gently loosened and removed.
- For surgical extractions, the tooth may be sectioned or bone removed as needed.
Post−Extraction Care
- For simple extractions, the tooth is gently loosened and removed.
- For surgical extractions, the tooth may be sectioned or bone removed as needed.
Recovery and Healing
- Most patients heal within 7 to 10 days, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
- Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and discuss tooth replacement options if needed.
What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction
Proper post-extraction care is essential for fast healing and preventing complications. Here’s what to expect:
Immediate Aftercare
- Bite on gauze for 30-60 minutes to control bleeding.
- Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.
- Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw for the first 24 hours.
Pain Management
- Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
- Eat soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes.
- Avoid hard, spicy, or crunchy foods for a few days.
Oral Hygiene
- Avoid brushing near the extraction site for the first 24 hours.
- Rinse gently with salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean.
Healing Timeline
- Swelling and discomfort usually peak within 48 hours.
- Soft tissue healing takes place within one to two weeks.
- Complete bone healing may take several months.
Replacing an Extracted Tooth
If you have a missing tooth, it’s essential to explore replacement options so that you can maintain proper chewing function and prevent shifting of surrounding teeth. We offer several tooth replacement solutions, including:
- Dental Implants – A permanent solution that restores function and aesthetics.
- Dental Bridges – A fixed restoration that fills the gap.
- Partial Dentures – A removable option for multiple missing teeth.
We will discuss the best tooth replacement plan for you during your consultation. The goal is always to create personalized plans that fit your goals, budget, and lifestyle.
Meet Our
La Jolla Dentists
Dr. Bo Ah Kim
Dr. Bo Ah Kim pursued her passion for dentistry at Columbia University, College of Dental Medicine in New York City, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2007. Her training in general dentistry equips her with the skills to perform a broad range of procedures from basic fillings and crowns to complex full mouth reconstructions and TMJ Botox injections. Dr. Kim is renowned for her dedication to patient care, making communication and comfort the cornerstones of her practice.
Dr. Hyung Jin Bae
Accreditations
Wonderful Words from our Patients
~ Gabrielle Breton Leduc
~ Alice Hou
~ Gabrielle Breton Leduc
Comprehensive
Dental Services
Innovator in Periodontics and Dental Implantology
At La Jolla Dental Wellness, Dr. Hyung Jin Bae is a board-certified periodontist specializing in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease (also known as periodontal disease). Our periodontic treatments include deep cleanings, bone grafts, and dental implant placement. Get exceptional results with scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
You get
- ~ In-Depth Consultation
- ~ 3D Imaging
- ~ Local anesthetic for comfort
- ~ Reducing the risk of tooth loss
Simple Payment Options
Insurance Coverage
Visit La Jolla Dental Wellness
Hours
Monday – Tuesday 9am-5pm
Wednesday – CLOSED
Thursday – Friday 9am-5pm
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Is a tooth extraction painful?
We use local anesthesia and sedation to ensure a pain-free experience. Some discomfort after the procedure is normal but manageable with medication and aftercare.
How long does the procedure take?
A simple extraction takes about 20-40 minutes, but a surgical extraction may take longer depending on its complexity.
What foods should I avoid after a tooth extraction?
Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, and hot foods. Stick to soft foods like smoothies, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first few days.
How soon can I return to work after an extraction?
Most patients can return to work within 1-2 days. If sedation or a surgical extraction was performed, you may need a couple of extra days to fully recover.
What if my extraction site doesn’t stop bleeding?
Some minor bleeding is normal, but if it persists, bite on a damp tea bag or contact us for further guidance.
What is a dry socket, and how can I prevent it?
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot dislodges or dissolves, exposing the bone. To help prevent it, avoid smoking, drinking from straws, and vigorous rinsing for a few days. If possible, we recommend stopping smoking a couple of days prior to the procedure.
Schedule Your Tooth Extraction in La Jolla
At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we offer our family of patients safe, gentle, and expert tooth extractions in a calm and comfortable environment. Whether you need wisdom tooth removal, an emergency extraction, or guidance on tooth replacement, our caring team is here to help.
Call us today at 858-400-4605 to schedule your consultation or book an appointment online.
