Extraction may be the best step forward when a tooth becomes damaged beyond repair or starts to affect your oral health. At Bella Dental in Oxnard, we provide careful, straightforward tooth extractions to relieve pain, stop infections from spreading, and support your long-term dental health.
Tooth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. It may be recommended when a tooth is too damaged to save or interferes with your bite or oral health.
There are two types of tooth extractions:
This is used when the tooth is visible in the mouth. Your Bella Dental dentist gently loosens and removes the tooth with specialised instruments.
This is required when the tooth is impacted, broken beneath the gumline, or not easily accessible. If needed, a small incision is made to safely remove the tooth in parts.
There are several reasons a tooth may need to be removed. Your Bella Dental dentist will thoroughly assess your mouth and only recommend extraction when it is the right thing for you.
Some of the most common reasons to have a tooth extracted are:
Severe tooth decay: When decay reaches deep into the tooth and cannot be restored with a filling or crown.
Infection or abscess: If an infection in the pulp or root cannot be treated with a root canal, extraction may be the safest option.
Advanced gum disease: Periodontal disease can damage the supporting bone and tissues, causing teeth to loosen. In some cases, extraction helps to preserve surrounding structures.
Crowding or orthodontic planning: Teeth may be removed to create space for proper alignment during braces or other orthodontic work.
Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth stuck beneath the gums or growing at an angle can lead to pain, swelling, or infection.
Fractured teeth: Your tooth might need to be removed if it is cracked below the gumline or broken into multiple parts.
Trauma: Teeth damaged due to injury may need to be extracted if they cannot be rebuilt.
Delaying a necessary tooth extraction can lead to some complications, including:
In some cases, untreated dental infections can cause serious health problems. If your Bella Dental dentist recommends extraction, it is because leaving the tooth in place could do more harm than good. Acting quickly can lead to a faster, simpler recovery and fewer long-term issues.
Tooth extraction at Bella Dental is simple and stress-free. Our team prioritizes your comfort and provides clear guidance. We’re here to support you from start to finish. Here’s what to expect:
At your first visit, your Bella Dental dentist will examine your mouth and talk with you about any symptoms you’re having. We’ll review your health history and take X-rays to check the tooth and surrounding bone. You’ll be walked through your options and what to expect next. There’s plenty of time to ask questions, and we’ll make sure you feel ready before moving forward.
We begin by numbing the area around the tooth to keep you comfortable. For a simple extraction, your dentist gently moves the tooth until it loosens and lifts it out. If the tooth is impacted or broken, we may need to make a small incision in the gum to reach it. In some cases, the tooth is removed in sections. The whole procedure usually takes under an hour. Our team works carefully to protect the nearby teeth and tissues.
You may be a little sore after the procedure. This is normal and usually fades in a few days. Most people feel back to normal within a day or two.
We’ll give you clear instructions to help you heal, and your Bella dentist may ask you to:
Removing a problem tooth can protect your health and prevent more complex dental issues. Some of the key benefits include:
While preserving natural teeth is always the goal, extractions are sometimes the most effective path toward lasting comfort and health.
Relief is closer than you think if you’re dealing with a painful or damaged tooth. At Bella Dental, we’re here to help you get back to a healthier, more comfortable smile.
No. The area is fully numbed using local anaesthetic before the procedure begins. You may feel some pressure but not pain. After the extraction, mild discomfort can be managed with pain relief recommended by your dentist.
Initial healing takes about one to two weeks. Many patients feel well enough to return to work or school within a day or two, depending on the type of extraction.
Stick to soft foods for the first few days such as mashed potatoes, smoothies, yogurt, and soup. Avoid anything hot, crunchy, or chewy until the site has begun to heal.
Replacing a tooth can help maintain proper bite alignment and avoid stress on surrounding teeth. Your dentist will explain options such as implants or bridges.
Yes, but avoid brushing directly over the extraction site for the first 24 hours. Keep the rest of your mouth clean by brushing gently.
If you only receive local anaesthetic, you can typically drive yourself home. If sedation is used, you’ll need someone to accompany you.
Some light bleeding is normal for the first few hours. Bite gently on clean gauze, and contact our team if bleeding continues or increases.
Follow all aftercare instructions carefully, avoid touching the site, and clean your mouth. Let your dentist know if you experience unusual swelling or fever.
Mild swelling is normal and usually peaks 24-48 hours after the procedure. A cold compress can help reduce swelling.
It’s best to rest on the day of your extraction. Most patients can resume light activity after 24 hours, but avoid anything strenuous until you fully recover.
Call Bella Dental at (805) 394-3000 for more information on booking an appointment, or fill out the form below and we will reach out to you!
