Wisdom & Other Tooth Extractions
A toothache that won’t let up, a referral from your dentist, or an unexpected dental injury can all lead to the same question: does this tooth need to come out? Tooth extraction is one of the most common oral surgery procedures performed in the United States, and while the idea can feel daunting, the right care makes a significant difference in how quickly and comfortably you recover. Addressing the problem promptly protects neighboring teeth, prevents infection from spreading, and helps you return to daily life faster.
At Wilshire Oral Surgery and Implant Center, our board-certified surgeons Dr. Saman Vahedi and Dr. Jonathan Shadi bring extensive hospital-based training to every extraction we perform. Dr. Vahedi is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and Dr. Shadi completed his Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at UC San Francisco-Fresno. Our West Los Angeles office uses advanced 3D imaging technology to plan each procedure, and in many cases, we can evaluate and perform your surgery the same day you call.
Tooth extractions are part of the complete range of oral surgery procedures we provide throughout West LA, Santa Monica, Brentwood, and surrounding communities.
When a Tooth May Need to Be Removed
Preserving natural teeth is always the priority. Our surgeons recommend extraction only when it is the most appropriate course of action for your long-term oral health. Common reasons include:
Severe Tooth Decay
When cavity damage has destroyed too much structure to restore the tooth, extraction protects surrounding teeth and bone.
Tooth Infection
A periapical abscess that cannot be treated with root canal therapy may require extraction to prevent the infection from spreading.
Advanced Gum Disease
Periodontitis with significant bone loss can leave a tooth too loose or painful to keep long-term.
Cracked or Fractured Tooth
A fracture extending below the gum line or into the root often cannot be repaired, leaving extraction as the best path.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth trapped beneath the gum or bone can cause pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth if not removed.
Pre-Surgical Clearance
Patients preparing for cardiac or joint replacement surgery may need compromised teeth extracted as part of pre-operative care.
Every case starts with a thorough evaluation including your medical history, a clinical exam, and 3D imaging when appropriate.
Simple vs. Surgical Extractions
Extractions fall into two main categories. A simple extraction is performed on a tooth fully visible above the gum line and requires no incision. A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth is broken at or below the gum line, impacted, or has roots that are curved or otherwise difficult to remove. Wisdom teeth are among the most commonly surgically extracted teeth. When they lack room to erupt, they can become impacted and cause pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth. Our surgeons use in-office 3D imaging to evaluate root position and bone structure before every procedure for a precise, efficient removal.
Anesthesia and Sedation Options
We offer a full range of options tailored to your procedure and preferences:
- Local anesthesia (numbing injections)
- Oral sedation (a pill taken before the procedure)
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
- Conscious sedation
- IV moderate/deep sedation
- General anesthesia
Your surgeon will review your health history and recommend the most appropriate option. Many patients who feel anxious about dental procedures find IV sedation provides the most comfortable experience, with little to no memory of the procedure.
What to Expect Before, During, and After
Consultation and Imaging
Your surgeon reviews your X-rays or 3D cone beam scan, takes your health history, and confirms the treatment plan. For many patients, consultation and surgery happen the same day.
Tooth Removal
Once you are comfortable, your surgeon removes the tooth and places sutures as needed. Bone grafting to preserve the site for a future implant can often be performed at the same visit.
Recovery Guidance
Before you leave, you will receive detailed post-operative instructions. Plan to rest the day of surgery and avoid using a straw, smoking, and hard or crunchy foods for several days. According to the American Dental Association’s MouthHealthy.org, following post-extraction care guidelines is one of the most important factors in a smooth recovery.
Planning for Tooth Replacement
After an extraction, we will discuss your options for the space. Depending on which tooth was removed and your overall goals, possibilities may include a dental implant, a fixed bridge, a partial denture, or no replacement if that is clinically appropriate. Leaving a gap unaddressed can allow neighboring teeth to shift over time, so this conversation is part of every extraction consultation. If a dental implant is part of your plan, bone grafting at the time of extraction can preserve the bone volume needed for a successful placement later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Vahedi and Dr. Shadi bring board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgery training to every procedure at Wilshire Oral Surgery and Implant Center. Our team uses today’s latest surgical techniques to minimize discomfort and support a faster recovery for patients throughout West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Century City, Westwood, and the surrounding Wilshire corridor communities.
If you are experiencing tooth pain, have been referred to an oral surgeon, or need a same-day evaluation, we are ready to help. Contact us or call (310) 954-9449 to schedule your appointment.