Extractions Specialist
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Pacific Coast Periodontics
Periodontists located in San Francisco, CA
Extractions provide a safe and effective way to treat potentially serious oral health problems like crowding, impaction, or deep decay. At Pacific Coast Periodontics in the Union Square neighborhood of San Francisco, California, Sohyun Park, DDS, boasts years of experience performing extractions on an outpatient basis. To make an appointment, call the office to speak with a friendly member of the administrative staff or click the online booking tool.
Extractions Q & A
What are extractions?
Extractions are a type of oral surgery that removes one (or multiple) permanent teeth. The most common type of extraction is wisdom tooth removal, but there are several other reasons extractions might be necessary, including:
- Orthodontic treatment
- Crowding
- Severe cavities
- Tooth infection
You might also benefit from extractions if you’re preparing to undergo a complex medical procedure like chemotherapy or an organ transplant.
How do I prepare for extractions?
Before recommending extractions, the team at Pacific Coast Periodontics conducts an oral exam and reviews your dental health history. Then, your provider takes a series of oral X-rays to assess the condition and position of your tooth (or teeth).
During the consultation, let your provider know if you’ve been diagnosed with an underlying medical condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. These conditions won’t prevent you from undergoing extractions, but they may increase the risk of complications.
What are the types of extractions?
The team at Pacific Coast Periodontics offers two types of extractions:
Simple extractions
If your affected tooth is above the gumline and easy to access, your provider conducts a simple extraction. First, they administer a local anesthetic. When the anesthesia sets in, they loosen your tooth with a tool called an elevator and then gently remove it.
Surgical extractions
If your affected tooth is impacted beneath the gum line, your provider conducts a surgical extraction. First, they administer a local anesthetic. Once you’re comfortable, they access the tooth beneath your gums and section it into several pieces. Then, they remove them.
What is recovery like following extractions?
Following extractions, you’ll experience some mild swelling and increased sensitivity. For the first 24-48 hours, eat only soft foods and avoid biting down on the extraction site. Continue to brush and floss, but be very gentle. To avoid a painful dry socket, avoid drinking from a straw for at least a week.
Your mouth should heal within a few days, but if any uncomfortable symptoms persist, contact the team at Pacific Coast Periodontics.
To further explore extractions, make an appointment at Pacific Coast Periodontics by calling the office to speak with a friendly member of the administrative staff or clicking the online booking tool today.