Tooth Removal in San Francisco, CA

Infected or Damaged Tooth Extraction

If you need to have, a tooth extracted and live in the San Francisco, California area, our team at Azure Dental can help! Our dentists use gentle techniques to remove teeth quickly and comfortably. We also offer sedation dentistry for those who want to be completely relaxed during their procedure.

Most tooth extractions are relatively straightforward procedures performed in our office. However, some cases are more complex and may require referral to an oral surgeon. Regardless of the type of extraction you need, we will ensure that you are comfortable and that the procedure is performed safely.

Tooth Extraction

If you have tooth decay, damage, or infection of your natural teeth, it may need to be extracted. In addition, tooth extractions are sometimes necessary due to other causes like removing extra teeth to make room for braces, preparing the mouth for dental implants, or removing impacted wisdom teeth. Typically extractions are done on adult teeth, as a child’s teeth will fall out, and other restorative options are available.

The teeth removal process can be performed in our office under local anesthesia. This means that the area around your tooth will be numbed so that you will be fully awake, and it will be virtually painless. We will also provide you with a sedative to help you relax during the procedure.

Oral Surgery

In some cases, we will recommend patients receive oral surgery for extraction. This is because oral surgeons are specialists in removing teeth and frequently perform this type of treatment.

Types of Tooth Extractions

There are two main types of tooth extractions:

Simple Tooth Extraction: This procedure can be performed quickly and relatively easily by a dentist in-office. It is used to remove teeth that are visible above the gum line. The patient will not need an anesthetic.

Surgical Tooth Extraction: This extraction is necessary when the tooth is not visible above the gum line or is lodged in the bone. It is a more complex procedure requiring oral surgeon anesthesia and may take longer to complete.

The Procedure

When you arrive, your dentist will first look at your tooth to determine the best way to extract it. They may also take an x-ray to better view the tooth and its surroundings.

Once the dentist has determined the best approach, they will numb the area and begin the extraction. Your dentist will use gentle pressure and suction to remove the tooth. The whole procedure takes only a few minutes per tooth in most cases.

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to see how the site is healing or to complete the following steps in your treatment plan.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

After the teeth have been extracted, it is essential to take care of the surgical site to promote healing. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on caring for your mouth after the procedure. These may include eating soft foods, avoiding smoking, and not using straws.

It is normal to experience some bleeding and swelling after tooth extraction. To help control this, you can use a cold compress on the area. However, contact your dentist if the bleeding or swelling persists or worsens.

Necessary Precautions to Take

Once the teeth are extracted, you will need to take precautions to ensure that the areas heal properly. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours.
• Do not drink through a straw for the first 24 hours.
• Do not smoke for at least 48 hours.
• Eat soft foods and avoid spicy or hard foods for a few days.
• Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed.

Potential Risks or Complications

While tooth extractions are generally safe procedures, some potential risks or complications can occur.

• Infection: This is the most common complication of tooth extraction. It can be treated with antibiotics if caught early.
• Bleeding is normal after a tooth extraction, but it can persist in some cases. If the bleeding is excessive or does not stop, contact your dentist.
• Damage to surrounding teeth: If the tooth being extracted is adjacent to other teeth, there is a risk of damage to those teeth. Your dentist will take precautions to protect surrounding teeth during the extraction.
• Nerve damage: This is a rare complication but can occur if the tooth is located close to the nerve. Nerve damage can cause numbness or tingle in the lips, gums, or chin.

San Francisco Tooth Extractions

At Azure Dental, we are here to help you maintain optimal oral health. Tooth extractions are just one of our many patients’ many services. We understand that having a tooth extracted can be a stressful experience, which is why we take care to ensure that our patients are comfortable and well-informed throughout the entire process.

If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort and think you may need a tooth extraction, please contact our office to schedule an appointment. We will work with you to find the best solution for your needs!