Tooth Extractions Sunnyvale, CA
You and Dr. Lucero may determine that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.
To avoid these complications, in most cases, Dr. Lucero will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.
Need a Tooth Extraction? We've Got You Covered!
Whether it's due to decay or preparation for orthodontics, Dr. Lucero is here to provide gentle, effective tooth extractions. Don’t wait—contact us today to discuss your options and ensure your dental health!
The Extraction Process
At the time of extraction the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jaw bone and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.
During the extraction process you will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of firmly rocking the tooth in order to widen the socket for removal.
You feel the pressure without pain as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected.
If you do feel pain at any time during the extraction please let us know right away.
Sectioning a Tooth
Some teeth require sectioning. This is a very common procedure done when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. The doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time.
After Tooth Extraction
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch the flow of blood.
After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.
After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
Use pain medication as directed. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.
It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
After a few days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.
Alexia R. Lucero, DDS
Patient Review By robert w
One aspect for maintaining a healthy lifestyle is having a competent dental professional;. For over 20 years I've been grateful for the advice and skills I've received from Dr Lucero. Perhaps none more important than the recent advice and strong suggestions I received from her. Dr Lucero noticed a lesion on the inside of my lower lip. I could not see or feel it. She found it during a routine dental check up. Dr Lucero suggested I immediately consult with a physician. My doctor ordered a biopsy. It came back positive for grade level 2 squamous cell carcinoma Surgery followed by removing a small wedge of my lower lip. When the surgeon asked how I discovered the lesion, I told him it was Dr Lucero. He acknowledged that was an excellent call on her part. Without her early detection the small lesson could have morphed into a far more serious condition. . Thank you Dr Lucero for your many years of. professional care. Robert Woolsey
- robert w
Patient Review By Carrie S
Dr. Lucero has taken extra care to be sure I understand and am comfortable with every procedure. I leave her office, wanting to smile!
- Carrie S
Patient Review By Jen R
Dr Lucero is great! My family has been coming here for years and she’s a wonderful doctor. We feel very comfortable with Dr Lucero, she is a great listener and very intelligent and informed. I appreciate her willingness to explain procedures so I feel relaxed.
- Jen R
Patient Review By Michelle S
My dentist for a very long time.
- Michelle S
Patient Review By Mikki C
Always great service when I come for my treatment. Dr. Lucero and her staff are accommodating and kind every time I have an appointment. I highly recommend Dr. Lucero!
- Mikki C
Patient Review By Dolline G
I travel from Auburn, California to be in her dental chair. I’ve surch for closer dental care and have been disappointed with what I’ve found. So I’ll travel hours and miles to come back her to see Alexia Lucero.
- Dolline G
Patient Review By Jeff B
I had Dental bonding that changed my smile! I am so happy with how it turned out!!
- Jeff B
Patient Review By Jeff B
Very satisfied.
- Jeff B
Patient Review By Adriana W
They are an amazing group that makes our family feel so welcome every time we come. In addition to being great about regular appts (cleanings) they have been great during my clear braces process. And wow, what a difference! Thank you Dr. Lucero and staff!!!
- Adriana W
Patient Review By Barbara S
Once you come to dr Lucero you will wonder how you did not find her sooner
- Barbara S
Patient Review By Barbara S
Have been with dr. Lucero for decades. The best dentist I have ever had. She is excellent and makes it a pleasure to come to her office.
- Barbara S
Patient Review By Barry H
If going to the Dentist is not your thing they could possibly change your mind. I actually enjoy coming in.
- Barry H
Patient Review By Christopher J
The results of getting the implant have been amazing. I previously had a bridge and it finally broke after about 25 years. Dr. Lucero walked me through the options of replacing the bridge or getting an implant. I am so glad that I did the implant. It acts just like a natural tooth and I can feel no difference eating on the implant and my other teeth. Dr. Lucero had me whiten my teeth before ordering the implant crown. The overall effect was that all my teeth matched in color. Dr. Lucero did not do the surgery. She worked closely with an oral surgeon collegue, even showing up to discuss the procedure with the surgeon and me. The overall experience was well coordinated and I felt like I was working with a team. I would recommend this office and this procedure. It's like having a natural tooth.
- Christopher J
Patient Review By Rosa P
Love that dentist so much
- Rosa P
Patient Review By Denielle F
I was made to feel comfortable and my worries put at ease.
- Denielle F
Patient Review By Diane w
I came to Dr. Lucero's office with a broken tooth. I was taken in promptly and fitted with a temporary crown allowing me to enjoy Christmas dinner! Jenelle in the front office is pleasant, kind and very knowledgeable about the services being provided. Yesenia, dental assistant is calm and efficient. Ashley, hygienist has painlessly performed root planing and scaling stopping the progression of my gingivitis. She is a magician when it comes to periodontal maintenance. I am happy with my dental fillings, crowns, teeth cleaning and Zoom whiting procedure. I am very grateful to Dr. Lucero and her staff. I doubt I'll ever find a dentist who compares.
- Diane w