If you’re suffering from extreme tooth decay, an infected tooth, or tooth broken down to the gumline, you may be in need of a tooth extraction. Dr. Kim ensures that the extraction is done very precisely and atraumatically in order to preserve as much surrounding bone as possible.
As a prosthodontist, Dr. Kim is a specialist in this exact procedure. An additional 3 years of extensive residency training after dental school gives her unique know-how to see your case more comprehensively and understand the complexities of a healthy bite.
Every detail in dentistry matters. Dr. Kim works with the best-in-class team who also values modern technology and has hand-picked every tool, material, and component used on your tooth to optimize the longevity of your dental work.
It is paramount that you feel empowered about your teeth & dental care. Dr. Kim enjoys simplifying what is complex about dentistry. She intentionally embeds time necessary (without extra cost) to fully discuss all your questions.
Your work should last and look fantastic. Other dentists love working with Dr. Kim because she quarterbacks your care and delivers with consistent excellence. Other health professionals go to her for their own dental care. Our motto is: Do dental work once, maintain it for life.v
Initial Consultation: At your first appointment we will examine the health of your mouth and talk about choices for dentures supported by implants. This process includes x-rays and photos to determine the most appropriate method of treatment.
Extraction: The tooth will be atraumatically extracted. Light to moderate sedation options are available in addition to the included local anesthetic.
Recovery and Care: After the extraction, post-op instructions include a soft food diet, salt water rinses, ice pack & ice water, and any antibiotics.
2 Week Post-Op: After 10-14 days, the doctor will see you to make sure you are healing well.
Replacement Options: Following healing you may discuss the possibility of replacing the tooth you removed including implant crowns.
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Tooth extractions are often required when a tooth is severely decayed, infected, or damaged beyond repair. If a tooth is impacted (like wisdom teeth), or if there’s overcrowding in your mouth, extraction may be necessary to ensure your overall oral health. Dr. Kim will evaluate your situation thoroughly to determine if removal is the best option and when necessary, discuss potential replacement options such as dental implants to restore function and appearance.
After a tooth extraction, it’s essential to follow the aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Kim. Proper teeth cleaning and taking medications as prescribed will ensure proper healing. You may need to avoid certain crunchy and spicy foods or activities to prevent complications, like dry socket. Dr. Kim will discuss your options for replacing the extracted tooth, such as implant crowns, once the area has healed. Your post-op visit will also ensure the healing process is on track.
Healing time varies depending on the complexity of the extraction. For a simple extraction, recovery typically takes about 7-10 days, while more complex extractions may take several weeks. Dr. Kim will monitor your progress and guide you in managing any discomfort during this period. Full recovery and readiness of the site for a replacement, such as an implant, may take a couple months.
Yes, once the extraction site has healed, you can discuss various options for replacing the missing tooth, including implant crowns. Dental implants offer a permanent, natural-looking solution that restores both the function and aesthetics of your smile. Dr. Kim will ensure the area is fully healed before proceeding with any replacement procedures.
Depending on the case, some teeth can receive an implant on the same day as the tooth is extracted. This is called an immediate implant. This is especially useful when there is no infection, there is enough bone, and the tooth is in an area you can see.
Teeth that have significant infection or not enough bone are better off taking the tooth out, cleaning out all the infection, placing bone graft, and allowing the site to heal before placing any implants. In this case, it takes a couple months for the extraction site to heal completely and for the bone to mature. Once bone has matured, it is ready for implant placement. Dr. Kim will monitor your healing and let you know when it’s safe to proceed with the implant placement.
To prevent complications like infection or dry sockets, it’s crucial to follow Dr. Kim’s aftercare instructions. This includes avoiding hard or spicy foods, refraining from smoking and sticking to soft foods for a few days. Gentle salt water rinsing around the extraction site is important but avoid brushing or flossing near the wound for at least 2-3 weeks. Resting and allowing the area to heal naturally will help reduce the risk of complications.
