Tooth Extractions

At Fantastic Family Dental in Cambrian Park, San Jose, California, Doris Lin, DDS, practices conservative dentistry that aims to keep your natural structures intact. There are some cases, however, where a troublesome tooth might just be causing more problems than it’s worth. If you need a tooth extraction, Dr. Lin can help. Schedule your visit with Fantastic Family Dental today by calling the friendly office or using the convenient online scheduling tool.

Tooth Extractions Q&A

What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is the professional removal of one or more of your teeth. Dr. Lin performs extractions as a last resort because it’s typically preferable to keep as much of your natural oral structures intact as possible.

If Dr. Lin does recommend an extraction, she performs the procedure with the utmost care, efficiency, and effectiveness.

When do I need to extract a tooth?

There are a variety of reasons Dr. Lin might recommend extracting one or more of your teeth, including:

To make room for more effective orthodontic treatment if you have severe crowding
To get rid of an infected tooth that’s causing significant damage to your mouth
To rehabilitate your mouth when you have a tooth with irreparable damage or decay
To remove wisdom teeth when you don’t have enough room in your mouth

Many men and women also get extractions if they’re getting full or complete dentures and still have some natural teeth remaining.

What happens when I get a tooth extracted?

When you get an extraction at Fantastic Family Dental, Dr. Lin first uses a local anesthetic to numb your tooth and the surrounding tissue. Then, she uses a special tool, called an “elevator” to wiggle your tooth back and forth until it’s loose enough to remove. Once she can easily extract your tooth, she uses a pair of forceps to remove your tooth from its socket. After she removes it, she packs the empty socket with gauze to help a clot form.

Because you’re anesthetized throughout the procedure, you won’t feel any pain during your extraction. You’ll likely only feel some slight pressure as Dr. Lin removes your tooth.

How can I help the healing process after an extraction?

Your mouth will heal on its own over the next few days, but there are a few measures you can take to ensure the healing process goes smoothly.

You should avoid vigorously rinsing your mouth for a few days after your procedure, and you should also avoid sucking motions (like drinking through a straw), as this can dislodge the blood clot in your socket that helps you heal.

Dr. Lin gives you specific and detailed aftercare instructions to follow that will help speed along your recovery process. Once you’ve healed, you can discuss your restoration options with Dr. Lin, which might include a bridge or a dental implant to replace your recently extracted tooth.

Get started with your extraction today and schedule an appointment with Fantastic Family Dental by calling the office or booking a visit online.