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(310)424-3100Tooth Extractions & Bone Grafting - Torrance, CA
Procedures Protecting Oral Health
As a team of skilled dentistry experts, we are dedicated to helping our patients avoid tooth loss whenever possible. However, there are some cases when a tooth extraction is absolutely necessary. The most commonly extracted teeth are the third molars, often called the wisdom teeth. These late erupting teeth can lead to numerous oral health concerns including crowding and impaction.
In order to prevent oral health concerns related to the wisdom teeth, we may recommend a preventive tooth extraction. Many dentists simply remove the tooth and allow the extraction site to fill naturally. However, research indicates this may be detrimental to the shape and health of the mouth. That’s why the Blue Coast Dental Group team uses combined tooth extraction and bone grafting for Torrance, CA dental patients to preserve the natural shape and strength of the smile for optimal oral health. Call our Torrance dental office to schedule your wisdom tooth consultation today.
Reasons We Recommend Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Around the age of 12, children should receive a wisdom tooth evaluation and consultation. At this age, the wisdom teeth are typically still developing below the gum line. By examining these teeth in this early stage, we can help preteens and parents understand whether or not a wisdom tooth extraction will be necessary. Some of the reasons we may recommend a wisdom tooth extraction include:
- A tooth is developing out of alignment with the existing smile line, which could cause the surrounding teeth to shift out of position
- A tooth is developing at an angle that may prevent it from erupting
- A tooth is causing severe pain or dental sensitivity
- A tooth is pressing against the surrounding teeth leading to shifting or misalignment
Learn More About Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Types of Tooth Extraction
There are two main types of tooth extractions, simple and surgical. A simple extraction is ideal. When a tooth is fully erupted from the gum line, we start by numbing the area, hold the tooth with metallic tools, and gently shift the tooth in its socket until it slips out on its own.
In most cases, wisdom teeth are at least partially surgically extracted. The surgical removal can be as simple as cutting away a small amount of soft tissue to fully reveal the tooth, or more complicated, involving breaking the tooth into smaller pieces for easy extraction.
Use of Bone Grafting for Socket Preservation
When a tooth is extracted, nearby teeth may shift to fill the socket, the surrounding bone and soft tissue diminish, and the shape of the jaw can change. To ensure the maintenance of the shape and structure of the jaw, placing a bone graft directly following an extraction is necessary. By performing a bone graft the same time that a tooth is extracted, we ensure patients maintain the same jaw shape and flawless oral health.
Benefits of Combined Tooth Extraction & Grafting Procedures
There are numerous benefits for patients when it comes to using a combined extraction and bone tissue grafting method, including:
- Decreased risk for oral health concerns like dry socket following an extraction
- Increased stability for surrounding healthy teeth, preventing shifting and dental drift
- Reduced bleeding and healing time following treatment
- Less risk for changes in facial shape that can occur following tooth loss
Tooth Extractions FAQs
You only get one set of teeth in your lifetime. Although you may do everything possible to keep your smile complete and healthy, some problems (like decay and accidental injuries) may cause you to need an extraction. At Blue Coast Dental Group, we understand that getting a tooth pulled can sound frightening. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find out the procedure isn’t as bad as you may think! To help ease your nerves, we’ve decided to answer some frequently asked questions below.
Does Getting a Tooth Pulled Hurt?
If your dentist in Torrance recommended a tooth extraction, you may be tempted to put it off because you’re worried it’ll hurt. Rest assured – our dental team will numb your mouth completely before your extraction. It’s worth noting that you’ll likely experience mild soreness and discomfort following your procedure. However, you can easily manage it by following your aftercare instructions to a tee. If your pain worsens or you begin to experience symptoms of an infection (i.e., fever and swelling), contact our office right away.
Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?
It depends! If you’re having a tooth pulled because of extensive decay, root canal therapy may be an alternative solution. Meanwhile, patients with periodontal disease could opt for root scaling and planing instead. Of course, it’s important to remember that our dentist in Torrance will only recommend an extraction if it’s the best option for your smile. For some patients, it’s the only way to get a strong, healthy, and pain-free grin once again.
What’s the Recovery for Tooth Extractions Like?
After your procedure, we’ll provide you with a detailed list of aftercare instructions to help you make a speedy, smooth-sailing recovery. One of the most crucial things you must do while healing is care for the blood clot that forms on the surgical site. If you fail to do so, it can lead to a painful complication known as a dry socket. You must also keep your mouth clean during your recovery to help minimize the risk of infection and promote faster healing. Most patients can begin brushing, flossing, and rinsing within three days of their procedure, which is around the time you should start feeling better.
Can I Smoke After Getting a Tooth Extracted?
No! Smoking cigars, cigarettes, and even e-cigarettes can delay healing. It’s strongly recommended that you avoid smoking for at least five days following your extraction. Of course, quitting this poor habit completely is the ideal option. If you’re having difficulty kicking this habit to the curb, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. We’ll provide you with the support, resources, and guidance you need to make the feat as easy as can be.