Isaac Lin DDS Santana Park Dental Care
Oral Surgery / Extractions
Sometimes, in the case of severe decay, trauma, spacing issues, such as overcrowding, or to prepare for orthodontic work, a tooth extraction is necessary. Having a tooth pulled, or extracted, is common. The removal of wisdom teeth is also another reason for extraction and is a service offered by our dental office.
After careful examination and treatment, the dentist may advise having a tooth extracted. Before a tooth is removed, the dentist will take an x-ray in order to understand the shape and position of the tooth and surrounding bone. Based on the degree of difficulty, we may refer you to a specialized oral surgeon.
A tooth may need to be extracted for the following reasons:
Tooth Extractions
Once the tooth or teeth have been extracted, patients have many options for filling the new gaps in their smile. Dr. Isaac Lin will help the patient decide if the tooth should be replaced and the many options, including crowns, bridges, and dentures, that are available. The patient may choose to have the tooth replaced at the same time as the extraction or at a later appointment.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth are the last molars or “third molars” that develop on each side of the jaws. These molars usually emerge in the back of the mouth between the ages of 16-20.
Wisdom teeth are a valuable asset to the mouth when they are healthy and properly positioned. However, problems often develop that require their removal. When the jaw isn’t large enough to accommodate wisdom teeth, they can become impacted (unable to come in or misaligned). Wisdom teeth may also grow in sideways, emerge only part way through the gum or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively routine procedure. The dentist will numb the area in your mouth with local anesthesia or use IV sedation so you are asleep during the procedure.
After the tooth is removed, we will provide care instructions to ensure proper healing. Some pain and swelling may occur but will normally subside after a few days.