Truth be told, all of us would probably rather keep all of our teeth. Proper dental hygiene, regular care, and preventive maintenance can go a long way toward preserving your teeth, but what if a tooth simply can’t be saved? There are actually a number of reasons why patients seek surgical teeth removal in Pasadena, but first, let’s get a better understanding of the general reasons teeth might need extraction.
What Are The Most Common Reasons For A Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction may be necessary if a tooth is severely decayed, fractured, impacted, infected, or contributing to crowding. Dr. Chan recommends removal only when the tooth cannot be saved or when it supports your overall treatment plan.
Some tooth extractions are done as a preventive measure, while others are done to correct existing problems. Common reasons include:
- Decayed or fractured tooth: Tooth extraction may be the best option if the damage is beyond repair and risks spreading infection.
- Impacted tooth: Most often a wisdom tooth, impacted teeth can cause pain, infections, or damage to nearby teeth.
- Crowded mouth: Removing one or more teeth can create space for proper alignment, especially before orthodontic treatment.
- Infection: If the infection has spread into the pulp or bone and cannot be resolved with root canal therapy, extraction may be necessary.
- Advanced gum disease: Periodontal disease can weaken the support around a tooth, making extraction the healthiest option.
- Prosthetic planning: Extractions are sometimes needed before placing dentures or dental implants to ensure a secure and functional fit.
If you’re unsure whether your tooth can be saved, Dr. Chan will perform a thorough exam and use advanced imaging to evaluate the best path forward for your oral health.
Meet Dr. Christopher Chan
Dr. Chan is a dual-degree, board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with advanced training in dental implants, full arch restoration, and bone grafting.
Since 1953, Foothill Center for Dental Implants and Oral Surgery has delivered trusted results. Dr. Chan continues this legacy, offering local and truly personalized care.
When is a Surgical Extraction Necessary?
Most simple tooth extractions can be performed by a general dentist, but there are cases where patients needing tooth removal in Pasadena, might be referred to an oral surgeon for surgical extraction:
When teeth are damaged, infected, impacted, or very decayed, oral surgeons are often sought for their specialized training in dealing with these situations. Probably the most common example of this is with wisdom teeth removal.
Patients considering dental implants are often referred to an oral surgeon because they are able to employ special techniques designed to preserve existing bone structure – essential for proper dental implant placement.
Some patients are more comfortable being put under general anesthesia or IV sedation while undergoing extractions. Many general dentists may not offer these options for anesthesia, thus they refer the patient to an oral surgeon like Dr. Chan to perform the extraction.
What To Expect Before and After the Procedure
At Foothill Center for Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, our surgeons are skilled in surgical teeth removal, particularly where dental implants will be involved. Though we also provide immediate extraction in very time-sensitive cases, typically, tooth extractions involve the following:
- An initial consultation, in which we learn your symptoms and any relevant medical factors and then thoroughly examine your teeth to understand what problems have occurred.
- At the time of extraction, you will be given anesthesia so that you feel no pain during your procedure. Depending on your specific case and preference, local or general anesthesia or IV sedation may be used.
- Again, depending on the nature of the extraction, different techniques will be employed to remove the problem tooth while making every effort to preserve the existing tissues and surrounding teeth.
- Once the extraction is complete, the tooth socket will be stitched (if needed) and dressed to allow blood to properly clot and to prevent infection. You’ll also be given instructions on pain management and care specific to your case.
What to Eat After a Tooth Extraction
During the first 24 to 48 hours after your tooth extraction, it’s important to follow a soft food diet to support healing and minimize irritation. Dr. Chan typically recommends:
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Smoothies (without a straw)
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Broth-based soups
Avoid crunchy, spicy, hot, or chewy foods that could disrupt the surgical site or dislodge the blood clot, causing dry socket. As healing progresses, you can slowly reintroduce solid foods based on your comfort level. Dr. Chan provides personalized aftercare instructions, including dietary guidelines, so you know exactly what to expect.
Tooth Extraction and Dental Implants: Planning Ahead
If you’re considering a dental implant after your extraction, timing is key. At Foothill Center for Dental Implants and Oral Surgery in Pasadena, Dr. Chan evaluates your jawbone health using 3D cone beam CT scans to determine whether you’re a candidate for immediate implant placement.
In many cases, an implant can be placed shortly after extraction, and in select cases, on the same day. Planning ahead helps preserve the socket and bone, reducing the need for grafting and shortening the overall treatment timeline. We’ll walk you through your options so your extraction can be the first step toward a fully restored smile.
Tooth Extractions for Children and Teens
Tooth extractions aren’t just for adults. Children and teens may need extractions due to baby teeth that won’t fall out on their own, orthodontic treatment needs, or dental trauma. Dr. Chan works in collaboration with pediatric dentists and orthodontists to make the process safe and stress-free.
Our team prioritizes age-appropriate communication and comfort. Whether your child needs a baby tooth extracted or a wisdom tooth removed, we’re here to provide expert care in a calm, supportive setting.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Tooth Extractions in Pasadena: Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Whether you’re facing pain, planning for braces or implants, or managing a complex dental issue, a tooth extraction might be the right solution. At Foothill Center for Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, Dr. Christopher Chan provides expert, compassionate care using advanced technology to ensure a smooth experience from consultation to recovery.
If you need a tooth extracted, the team at Foothill Center for Dental Implants and Oral Surgery in Pasadena will be happy to answer your questions and schedule an appointment that’s convenient for you.
Contact Us Today!
Real Patient Reviews
Hear From Our Satisfied Patients
“Dr. Chan and his staff are wonderful!! My dentist keeps raving about how good of a job Dr. Chan did when he did my implant and surgical tooth removal. His office staff is very organized and professional. I appreciate his office so much!”
Melanie S. –
“Fantastic dental office for oral surgery. I’ve been to many and this one is hands down the best. I had all of my wisdom teeth removed at the same time. The procedure was painless and healed very quickly. Dr. Chan is wonderful, informative and straight forward.”
Tony O. –
“Dr. Chan and team rock! I am a busy parent just like you. Got news that my 19 year old needed wisdom teeth extraction immediately. Leaving for college in less than a week, we were referred to Dr Chan and Foothill Center. They got us in quickly and recommended we do all four.
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C M. –
“Dr. Chan and staff are amazing. I had a broken tooth get infected and was causing severe pain. I was able to get a referral from my dentist to see Dr Chan for removal with sedation. Dr Chan was knowledgeable, took time to answer all my questions and had a great sense of humor (direly needed since I’d been in pain for about 4 days). ”
Petunia W. –
“Dr. Chan was a great asset to my care. He helped take out my wisdom teeth with a breeze. I was only swollen for a week and did not have any issues. I referred him to my whole family who needed wisdom teeth removal. ”
Sammy L. –