Why Choose Us?

Dr. Hong spends countless hours in continuing education every year to refine her particular set of skills with new developments and advancements in dental technologies. Dr. Hong is a Fellow of International Congress of Oral Implantology. Dr. Hong treats patients of all ages and truly enjoys all aspects of dentistry. She has an excellent bedside manner and does her best to make her patients feel comfortable during whole procedures.

Our Technology and Experience

• Sedation and pain management options.
• Skilled and Experienced Doctor
• 3rd molars
• Convenient on-site CT x-ray and 3D imaging technology.

What is Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth and can be performed for various reasons, like:

Damaged Teeth If you have a damaged or broken tooth that your dental professional deems is beyond repair, they will likely recommend its removal.

Tooth Decay Likewise, if your tooth has decayed to the point that it can no longer be treated with a filling, root canal, or crown, it may be best for your oral health to have it pulled.

Periodontal Disease When bacteria build-up and form plaque underneath the gums, it can cause gum disease. Its severe form is called periodontal disease, and it can erode your gum tissue and bone. This can cause your teeth to loosen and potentially require their extraction.

Crowded Teeth If you have a smaller jaw that doesn't fit all of your teeth, if you have extra teeth, or if you have a tooth growing into or on top of the tooth next to it – your dental professional may extract a tooth to eliminate overcrowding.

Type of Tooth Extractions

1) What are Simple Tooth Extractions?

Simple tooth extractions are when a visible tooth is surgically removed from your mouth. Simple tooth extractions are performed for a variety of reasons, including the removal of:

• Diseased teeth that can’t be treated with cavity fillings or root canals;
• Fractured teeth; and
• Teeth that need to be pulled in order to have more aesthetically pleasing dental implants placed.

2) What are Surgical Tooth Extractions?

Surgical tooth extractions are the removal of teeth from a patient’s mouth that have not yet erupted – or aren’t yet visible in the mouth. You might need a surgical tooth extraction if:

• You have impacted wisdom teeth that are painful;
• You have a genetic condition that causes you to grow more than 28 teeth plus your wisdom teeth; and
• You have unerupted teeth that need to be removed for oral procedure reasons, such as getting braces.

Surgical tooth extractions are more difficult oral surgery procedures because they involve cutting the gums and extracting the teeth from below the gumline.

How Long Does Pain Last After Tooth Extraction?

You can expect some bleeding for up to 24 hours after your extraction, and you mustn't do anything to disturb the blood clot that forms in the socket where your tooth used to be. For most people, the pain tends to decrease after the third day. After about a week to ten days, granulation tissue forms, which protects the extraction site until bone can form there. You'll likely have a follow-up appointment after two weeks for your dental professional to assess your healing and to ensure you're on your way to a successful recovery.

If you're having a wisdom tooth extracted, the healing time may take longer. It could last several weeks, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

The First 48 Hours After Tooth Extraction

The first two days after a tooth extraction is when the most aftercare and attention is needed. Here are some tips to make the most of this time:

• Leave the gauze your dentist placed in your mouth for a few hours to allow the blood clot to form. Then you can change it as often as needed.
• Rest for at least 24 hours after the extraction.
• Raise your head slightly when lying down.
• Avoid rinsing your mouth right away, as it can dislodge the clot that's forming, affecting your healing time.
• Avoid drinking with a straw and spitting.
• Avoid hot liquids and or alcohol.
• If possible, avoid blowing your nose and sneezing.
• Don't smoke or use any tobacco products for at least three days following the procedure.
• Take pain relievers as prescribed. They can also reduce inflammation.
• Reduce or minimize swelling with an ice pack on your cheek for 10-20 minutes at a time.

Day 3 And Beyond

Once your blood clot has formed, take these simple precautions to prevent other issues until your gum ha healed completely:

• Rinse your mouth with a saline rinse or warm salt water to kill bacteria.
• Continue regular brushing and using water flossers or interdental brushes, but avoid cleaning the teeth next to the extracted tooth.
• Eat soft, healthy foods and snacks that don't require a lot of chewing, like soups, yogurts, and similar foods. Avoid foods like nuts, hard candy, steak, and chewing on ice.