For a simple extraction, we will first apply a local anesthetic to prevent pain and discomfort. The tooth will be loosened with a tool called an elevator and then removed with dental forceps. Once the procedure is complete, the area may be closed with one or two stitches.

It is critical to keep the extraction area clean to prevent infection. We will provide you with dry, sterile gauze to bite down on for 30-45 minutes to limit bleeding while clotting takes place. For the next 24 hours, you shouldn't smoke, rinse your mouth vigorously or brush the teeth directly next to the extraction site.

A certain amount of pain and discomfort is to be expected following an extraction, which can be minimized with a pain-killer and ice packs applied to the face for 15 minutes at a time. After a routine extraction, discomfort should lessen within three days to two weeks. If you experience prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding or fever, contact us immediately.

Wisdom Teeth

Johnson Family Dental practice in Solvang, Goleta, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Port Hueneme, Newbury Park, Camarillo, and Santa Maria has helped hundreds of patients deal with the frustration, pain and uncertainty surrounding whether or not to remove their wisdom teeth.

While wisdom teeth can be a valuable asset to your mouth when they are healthy and properly positioned, problems may develop that require their removal. Our professional and knowledgeable dental professionals will work with you to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Wisdom teeth are the last molars, also referred to as third molars, which develop on each side of your jaw. These teeth usually emerge in the back of your mouth between the ages of 16-20. When the jaw isn't large enough to accommodate your wisdom teeth, they can become impacted (unable to come in or misaligned). Wisdom teeth may grow sideways, emerge only part way through the gum or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone.

A wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively routine procedure. The dentist will numb the area in your mouth with a local anesthesia or sedation so you are asleep during the procedure. After your tooth (or teeth) is removed, you may be asked to bite down softly on a piece of gauze for 30 to 45 minutes after you leave the office to limit any bleeding that may occur. Patients may experience some pain and swelling which will normally subside after a few days.

However, patients should call any of our three Johnson Family Dental Offices; if you have prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding or fever.

If you have further questions about yours or your child’s wisdom teeth, please contact Johnson Family Dental today in any three of our locations: Santa Barbara, Ventura or Solvang