Tooth Extraction
You may never want a tooth extracted, but it may prove necessary at times. When it does, you want a team ready to keep you comfortable with a stress-free process. At TruGLO in La Jolla, we ensure every tooth extraction is painless, quick, and safe.
Types of Tooth Extractions
Simple
Simple extractions involve removing a visible tooth that has no major breakage or impaction.
Complex
Complex extractions involve teeth that are partially visible, impacted, broken, or have notable root curvature.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Most people do not have enough room for their wisdom teeth (final molars). Removing them prevents them from causing issues down the road, such as pain, infection, or impaction.
Why Choose Our La Jolla Practice for Tooth Extraction
- Precision, pain-free extraction
- Patient follow-up and support
- Leading expertise in surgical techniques
- Modern, stylish, comfortable office
- Friendly staff always ready to help
- Same-day emergency extraction available
How a Tooth Extraction Happens:
Step By Step
Consultation & Assessment
Removing a tooth is a big decision, so we never rush it. First, we assess your situation and see if an alternative treatment would work. If no other option is suitable, we build your extraction plan.
Numbing the Area
Contrary to film portrayals, tooth extraction is a calm, pain-free affair. We use local anesthetic to numb the treatment area completely. Additional sedation can be used to further relax you.
Removing the Tooth
Using specialized dental tools, we remove the tooth. For simple extractions, it may involve simply pulling the tooth. More complex cases may involve an incision or breaking the tooth into smaller pieces.
Tooth Extraction Treatment Quick Facts
- Procedure Duration: 5 to 30 minutes per tooth
- Treatment Type: Surgical
- Average Checkup Frequency: After 1 to 2 weeks
- Pain Level: Mild pain after extraction, no pain during treatment
Testimonials
Ready to Start?
When your tooth is on the brink, you need La Jolla’s top dentist at TruGLO. Call or use our form to schedule a consultation to see if tooth extraction or wisdom teeth removal is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a tooth extraction?
Ideally, we can save your tooth with a root canal, dental crown, or other restoration. But if you need an extraction, then it is absolutely necessary. Some signs you need an extraction include:
- Severe, persistent tooth pain
- Severe, advanced tooth decay
- Extreme damage or breakage to a tooth
- Severe overcrowding
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Insufficient room for wisdom teeth
How much does a tooth extraction cost?
The cost of a tooth extraction will depend on its complexity and the type of anesthesia used. Simple extractions with local anesthetic can be as little as $250–$300 per tooth. Complex extractions can be upwards of $500-$700 per tooth, especially with sedation.
Many of our patients take advantage of our TruGLO Membership plans to help offset the cost of extractions. Depending on your plan, you can receive discounts on all dental care, often saving more money overall than insurance.
Does tooth extraction hurt?
The extraction itself involves no pain. You might feel some pressure, and the process might seem a little unusual. But pain is not a part of it. After the extraction, some discomfort can settle in for a few days. However, over-the-counter medication tends to be enough to manage it. It may be unpleasant for the first day or two, but it quickly improves after that.
How long does a tooth extraction take?
Simple extractions can take minutes, often under 15 minutes. You may spend more time waiting for the numbing to take effect than in the procedure itself. Complex extractions will vary more. Depending on the steps needed, they can take 20 to 30 minutes per tooth.
Will I still be able to eat and drink normally after treatment?
Not at first! You will want to stick to soft foods for several days. But avoid straws or anything that creates suction in your mouth. You don’t want to dislodge the blood clot that is helping the extraction site heal.
Will I need a dental implant after tooth extraction?
With wisdom teeth removal, you do not need to replace those teeth. But for all your other teeth, replacing an extracted one is often the right choice. Going without a tooth can lead to bone deterioration. Spend enough time without a tooth and you may lose bone density or even see changes in your jaw shape. Dental implants offer the most reliable way to replace a missing tooth.
What happens if I delay extraction?
Nothing good! As with other oral health concerns, putting off treatment only increases your risk of complications. For example, severe decay can lead to infections and painful symptoms. It can even worsen the overall health of nearby teeth. The sooner you treat a tooth appropriately, the better your outcome.
