A tooth extraction is recommended when a tooth can no longer be safely repaired. This may be due to severe decay, infection, trauma, or advanced gum disease. While many people worry that an extraction means they’ve “run out of options,” in reality, it’s often the step that relieves pain and prevents bigger problems from developing.
Common reasons patients seek tooth extractions include persistent tooth pain, swelling, infection that hasn’t responded to treatment, or a tooth that has broken below the gumline. In some cases, extractions are also needed to prepare for future dental work or to protect surrounding teeth from damage.
If you’re experiencing discomfort and wondering whether a tooth truly needs to come out, the best place to start is an evaluation. We’ll always look for ways to save a tooth first and only recommend extraction when it’s the healthiest option.
This is one of the most common concerns patients have, especially if they’ve had a difficult experience in the past. Modern tooth extractions are far more comfortable than most people expect. Local anesthesia is used to fully numb the area, and during the procedure, patients typically feel pressure rather than pain.
After the extraction, some soreness or tenderness is normal, particularly during the first few days. This is part of the body’s natural healing response. We provide detailed aftercare instructions, guidance on managing discomfort, and recommendations to help minimize swelling and promote smooth healing. Most patients are surprised by how manageable recovery feels when they follow these steps.
For patients who feel anxious, we take a calm, patient-first approach and explain each step before anything is done. Knowing what to expect and feeling supported throughout the process makes a significant difference in comfort and confidence.
Every tooth extraction begins with a thorough evaluation, including X-rays when needed, so we can fully understand the condition of the tooth, the surrounding bone, and nearby structures. This step is important because not all extractions are the same. Some teeth can be removed with a straightforward, simple extraction, while others are more complex due to their position, root structure, level of infection, or proximity to nerves.
For routine extractions, the area is fully numbed, and the tooth is gently loosened and removed using precise techniques designed to minimize trauma to the surrounding tissue. In more complex cases, such as impacted teeth, broken teeth below the gumline, or teeth with significant infection, treatment may require advanced surgical care. We’re fully equipped for this, and we have an oral surgeon right here in our office, so patients don’t need to be referred elsewhere for complex extractions.
Having both general dentists and an oral surgeon in one location allows us to manage simple and advanced cases seamlessly. It also means your care stays coordinated, efficient, and comfortable, even when a case requires a higher level of expertise.
After the extraction, we review aftercare in detail and make sure you understand what’s normal during recovery, what to avoid, and when to contact us with questions. Our goal is for you to leave feeling informed, supported, and confident about the healing process.
After a tooth extraction, replacing the missing tooth helps prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, protects your bite alignment, and reduces the risk of jawbone loss over time. Patients in North Hollywood, Toluca Lake, and the greater Los Angeles area often ask what the most reliable and affordable long-term solution is — and the answer depends on how many teeth are missing and the condition of the surrounding bone.
A single dental implant is one of the most stable options for replacing an individual tooth. Implants replace the root as well as the visible portion of the tooth, helping preserve bone and maintain long-term strength. Many patients searching for affordable dental implants in North Hollywood are surprised to learn that flexible payment options can make this solution more accessible than they expected.
If several teeth are missing in one area, an implant-supported bridge can restore function using fewer implants while still providing strong support. For patients missing most or all teeth in an arch, All-on-4 full-arch dental implants offer a fixed, secure solution that restores chewing ability and confidence. A traditional crown-supported dental bridge may also be recommended for patients looking for a non-surgical and cost-conscious alternative.
During your consultation, we evaluate your bone health, number of missing teeth, and long-term goals to determine which option makes the most sense for your smile and your budget.
At Toluca Advanced Dentistry we provide customized and affordable ways to replace missing teeth. Learn more about your options below and call to arrange a complimentary free consultation.
Custom dental implants designed to restore strength, stability, and the natural function of your smile.
Custom All-on-4 implants designed to restore full-arch function, stability, and a confident smile.
Custom crown and implant bridges designed to replace multiple teeth with strength, stability, and natural appearance.
Some soreness after a tooth extraction is normal, but most patients are surprised by how manageable it is. Discomfort typically peaks within the first couple of days and then steadily improves. The level of soreness depends on factors like which tooth was removed and how complex the extraction was. Our team provides clear aftercare instructions to help you heal comfortably and reduce pain as quickly as possible.
The gum tissue usually begins closing within one to two weeks after the extraction. However, deeper healing involving bone and surrounding tissue can take several months. Healing times vary from person to person, and we’ll let you know what to expect based on your specific situation.
Not always. Wisdom teeth only need to be extracted if they’re causing pain, infection, crowding, or other problems. If your wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, and easy to keep clean, removal may not be necessary. We’ll evaluate your wisdom teeth and help you decide if extraction is the best option.
Yes. Wisdom tooth extractions are performed right here at Toluca Advanced Dentistry. Whether your wisdom teeth are impacted, infected, or causing crowding, we create a personalized treatment plan focused on comfort, safety, and efficient healing.
Absolutely. Replacing a missing tooth is important for maintaining proper bite alignment and preventing nearby teeth from shifting. We offer multiple tooth replacement options, including dental implants, bridges, and full-arch solutions. We’ll help you choose the option that best fits your goals, oral health, and budget.