When an Extraction Becomes Necessary
At our Los Gatos dental office, preventive care is always the first line of defense. We do everything possible to repair and preserve your teeth, but there are times when removing a tooth is the most effective way to stop pain, prevent infection, or safeguard your neighboring teeth.
Extractions may be recommended for:
• Severe decay or damage that can’t be repaired with a crown or filling
• Advanced gum disease that has weakened tooth support
• Persistent infection following root canal treatment
• Preparation for orthodontic or restorative treatment
If you’re noticing pain, swelling, or sensitivity, schedule a prompt evaluation. Early diagnosis allows us to offer the most comfortable, minimally invasive treatment options before the problem progresses.
Preventive Care Before, During, and After Extraction
Even when an extraction is necessary, prevention remains at the heart of what we do. Our goal is to protect your surrounding teeth, preserve your bone structure, and set the foundation for long-term oral health.
We begin with a comprehensive exam and 3D imaging to evaluate your tooth, bone, and surrounding tissues. This advanced diagnostic process allows us to plan precisely and minimize trauma to healthy areas—reducing recovery time and improving outcomes.
During your procedure, we use:
- Help you relax for complete comfort
- Optional sedation for patients with dental anxiety
- Gentle, tissue-preserving techniques
- Careful monitoring to ensure a relaxed and safe experience
Our focus is always on prevention—protecting the health of your mouth now to prevent more complex dental issues later.
Bone Regeneration for Long-Term Health
After a tooth is removed, the bone that once supported it naturally begins to shrink. To prevent this, we often recommend bone regeneration, also called socket preservation, at the time of extraction.
This process involves placing a biocompatible grafting material into the empty socket to encourage your body’s natural bone-healing response. Preserving bone volume not only supports your facial structure but also helps ensure a strong foundation for future restorations, such as dental implants or bridges.
Benefits of Bone Regeneration Include:
- Better preservation of jaw shape and bone volume
- Improved support for future dental restorations
- Faster, more predictable healing
- Long-term protection for your oral health
Biological Approach to Gentle Extractions
For patients seeking a more natural approach, we offer biological extractions that emphasize whole-body wellness. Sometimes, teeth that have undergone previous root canal treatment can harbor lingering infection or inflammation. Removing these teeth carefully and thoroughly can support better overall health and healing.
To aid recovery, we may incorporate:
- Ozone therapy to naturally disinfect the site
- Biocompatible materials to promote bone regeneration and tissue repair
This mindful, biological approach allows us to perform extractions that are both gentle on the body and supportive of long-term wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Expect After Your Visit
After your extraction, we’ll provide detailed post-care instructions to ensure a smooth, comfortable recovery. You can expect gentle follow-up from our team to monitor healing and answer any questions along the way.
By focusing on prevention, precision, and comfort, Top Down Dental helps patients maintain long-term oral wellness—protecting not only your smile but your overall health.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you’ve been told you need a tooth removed or you’d like to learn about bone preservation options after extraction, our Los Gatos dental team is here to help. Contact Top Down Dental today at (408) 354-5600 to schedule your visit. We’ll ensure your experience is gentle, personalized, and designed to protect your oral health for years to come.
