Tooth Extractions in Lawndale, CA

Q: Do I need to replace an extracted tooth?

For wisdom teeth, no. For other teeth, replacing the missing tooth is generally recommended to prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting. Options include dental implants, bridges, and partial dentures.

When a tooth can’t be saved, our experienced team will remove it safely, gently, and with your comfort as the top priority.

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When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Our goal is always to save your natural teeth whenever possible. But sometimes a tooth is too damaged, too decayed, or too problematic to keep. When that’s the case, extracting the tooth is the best way to protect the health of your remaining teeth and gums.

You may need a tooth extraction if you have a tooth with severe decay that has destroyed too much structure for a filling or crown to restore. Teeth that are cracked or fractured below the gum line often can’t be repaired and need to be removed. Advanced gum disease can loosen teeth to the point where extraction is the only option. Crowding is another common reason, especially when teeth need to be removed to make room for orthodontic treatment. And of course, wisdom teeth that are impacted, partially erupted, or causing problems for neighboring teeth are among the most frequently extracted teeth.

If you’re not sure whether a tooth needs to come out, come see us. We’ll take X-rays, evaluate the tooth, and walk you through every option before making a recommendation.

Simple vs. Surgical Extractions

Not all extractions are the same. The approach we use depends on the tooth’s position, condition, and root structure.

Simple Extractions
A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that’s fully visible above the gum line and has a straightforward root structure. Your dentist numbs the area with local anesthesia, loosens the tooth with a specialized instrument, and removes it. The entire process typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, and most patients are surprised by how quick and comfortable it is. Recovery is usually fast, with most people feeling back to normal within a few days.
Simple extractions are common for teeth with extensive decay, teeth that are too damaged for a crown, or teeth being removed for orthodontic reasons.

Surgical Extractions
A surgical extraction is necessary when a tooth isn’t fully accessible. This includes teeth that are broken at or below the gum line, impacted wisdom teeth that haven’t erupted through the gum, and teeth with long, curved, or complex root structures that make a simple pull difficult.
During a surgical extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon makes a small incision in the gum tissue to reach the tooth. In some cases, a small amount of bone around the tooth may need to be removed, or the tooth may be divided into sections for easier removal. The area is stitched closed afterward to promote healing.

Surgical extractions involve a slightly longer recovery than simple extractions, but sedation and pain management options keep you comfortable throughout the process and during healing.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties. For most people, there simply isn’t enough room in the jaw for these teeth to come in properly. When wisdom teeth are impacted (trapped under the gum or bone), partially erupted, or growing at an angle, they can cause pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, and crowding.
Common signs that your wisdom teeth may need to come out include pain or swelling in the back of your jaw, difficulty opening your mouth fully, swollen or bleeding gums behind your last molars, and persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste caused by food and bacteria trapped around a partially erupted tooth.

We recommend having wisdom teeth evaluated in the late teens or early twenties, even if they aren’t causing symptoms yet. Removing them earlier, before the roots fully develop and the bone becomes denser, typically means an easier procedure and faster recovery.
Our doctors handle many wisdom tooth cases right here in our Lawndale office. For more complex situations, such as deeply impacted teeth close to the nerve, we work with a trusted network of oral surgeons in the South Bay area to make sure you’re in the best hands.

Your Comfort Comes First

We understand that the idea of having a tooth pulled can feel stressful. That’s why we take every step to make sure you’re comfortable before, during, and after the procedure.
Every extraction begins with local anesthesia to completely numb the area. You’ll feel pressure during the procedure, but you should not feel pain. If you do, let us know immediately and we’ll adjust.

For patients with dental anxiety, or for longer or more complex procedures, we offer sedation options to help you relax. We’ll discuss which option makes sense for your situation during your consultation.

We also provide clear aftercare instructions so you know exactly what to expect during recovery, including how to manage any swelling or discomfort, what to eat, and when to return for a follow-up if needed.

Replacing an Extracted Tooth

Once a tooth is removed (other than wisdom teeth, which don’t need replacement), it’s important to consider your options for filling the gap. Leaving a space where a tooth used to be can cause the surrounding teeth to shift, change your bite, and make chewing more difficult over time.

We offer several replacement options depending on your situation:

Dental implants are the most permanent solution. A titanium post is placed in the jawbone, and a custom crown is attached on top. Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Dental bridges use the teeth on either side of the gap to anchor an artificial tooth in place. Bridges are a reliable, non-surgical option for replacing one or more missing teeth.
Partial dentures are a removable option that can replace several missing teeth at once.
Your dentist will discuss the best replacement option for you based on the location of the missing tooth, the health of your surrounding teeth and bone, and your goals and budget.

Why Choose K&E for Extractions

Experienced doctors. Our team has performed thousands of extractions, from straightforward simple removals to complex wisdom tooth cases.

A network of specialists when you need one. For cases that require an oral surgeon or additional specialty care, we coordinate with a trusted referral network of specialists in the South Bay. You’ll get a seamless handoff and coordinated treatment plan so nothing falls through the cracks.

Sedation options for anxious patients. Dental fear is real, and we never minimize it. Whether it’s been years since your last visit or you’ve had a difficult experience elsewhere, our team will take the time to make sure you feel safe and in control.

Walk-ins and emergencies welcome. If you’re in pain and need a tooth out today, call us. We do our best to see emergency patients the same day, and walk-ins are always welcome during office hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to commonly asked questions about Dental Crowns and Bridges.

Does a tooth extraction hurt?

No. We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely before starting. You’ll feel pressure during the extraction, but not pain. Sedation options are available if you’d like additional comfort. After the procedure, some soreness is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

Most patients recover from a simple extraction within a few days. Surgical extractions and wisdom teeth removals typically take 7 to 10 days for full recovery. We’ll give you detailed aftercare instructions to help the healing process go smoothly.

What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, scrambled eggs, and smoothies are all good options. Avoid hot foods, straws, and anything crunchy or hard until the extraction site has healed.

How much does a tooth extraction cost?

The cost depends on whether you need a simple or surgical extraction and whether sedation is involved. Most dental insurance plans cover extractions, especially when they’re medically necessary. Our front office team will verify your benefits and walk you through your estimated costs before treatment.

Do I need to replace an extracted tooth?

For wisdom teeth, no. For other teeth, we generally recommend replacing the missing tooth to prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting. Options include dental implants, bridges, and partial dentures. We’ll help you choose the best option during your consultation.

Can you remove a tooth that’s already broken?

Yes. Broken teeth are one of the most common reasons for extractions. Even if the tooth has broken at or below the gum line, our team can safely remove it. In some cases, a surgical approach may be needed.