Tooth Extractions

Our dentist may recommend extracting a tooth in order to help you regain a healthy mouth and smile. We will carefully examine the damaged tooth to determine if an extraction is necessary, and, if so, will remove the tooth from your mouth as gently as possible. Our team will work closely with you afterward to find the best replacement option for the tooth and restore your smile. Call La Jolla Dental Image today at (858) 202-0481  to set up an appointment with Dr. Wali Hamidy and learn more about tooth extractions in La Jolla, California.

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth. While we strive to avoid the need to remove a tooth whenever possible, certain conditions may make tooth extraction the most effective option for returning your smile to good health and function. Following the tooth extraction, we are happy to provide you with one of our excellent tooth replacement treatments to restore your smile to optimal health, beauty and function.

Several conditions may necessitate tooth extraction. Among these are:

  • Severe infection that has destroyed a significant portion of the tooth and supporting bone structure
  • Serious decay that has damaged a tooth beyond repair, making a successful restoration impossible
  • Crowding caused by too many teeth to properly fit in the mouth

Our dentist and team use great care and skill when performing a tooth extraction to ensure that your experience is as comfortable and painless as possible. We will also provide you with detailed post-treatment care instructions so that you can properly take care of your smile as it heals. For more information on tooth extraction and to schedule your personalized consultation at our friendly dental office, we invite you to call or visit us today. We are committed to improving your smile!


At La Jolla Dental Image, under the expert care of Dr. Wali Hamidy, we offer comprehensive tooth extraction services, including wisdom tooth removal, to ensure your oral health remains optimal. Whether you're dealing with a damaged tooth or impacted wisdom teeth, Dr. Hamidy and his team provide compassionate and professional care to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. Our office in La Jolla, CA, is equipped with the latest dental technologies, and our goal is to restore your smile while prioritizing patient comfort and satisfaction.

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Tooth extractions are often a last resort, but in certain cases, removing a tooth is the best way to protect your oral health. Some common reasons for dental extraction include:

  • Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth is too damaged by decay to be repaired, extraction becomes necessary to prevent infection from spreading to surrounding tissues or other teeth.
  • Infection: Severe infections that have reached the roots or surrounding bone may require the tooth to be removed to protect the integrity of your jawbone and prevent further damage.
  • Overcrowding: In cases where there are too many teeth to fit comfortably in your mouth, extracting one or more teeth may be required to improve alignment and make space for orthodontic treatments.
  • Trauma or Damage: Teeth that are cracked or broken due to trauma may need to be removed if they cannot be repaired through dental procedures.

Once a tooth is extracted, we will provide you with tooth replacement options, including dental implants, to restore the appearance and function of your smile.

Wisdom Teeth Removal at La Jolla Dental Image

Wisdom tooth removal is one of the most common dental procedures performed by Dr. Hamidy. As an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Hamidy ensures that wisdom tooth extractions are performed with the utmost care, considering the size, position, and condition of your teeth.



Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often don’t have enough room to erupt correctly. Left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a variety of issues, including:

Pain and Swelling: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause discomfort in the jaw and surrounding tissues, leading to swelling and soreness.

Infections: As wisdom teeth struggle to emerge, bacteria can accumulate around the gums, leading to infections that can spread if not treated.

Damage to Nearby Teeth: If wisdom teeth are pushing against other molars, they can lead to shifting and misalignment, requiring orthodontic care.

Cysts or Tumors: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts to form, damaging the jawbone and surrounding tissues.

By removing your wisdom teeth, you can prevent these issues from escalating and protect your dental health.

What to Expect During the Extraction Procedure

Before the extraction, Dr. Hamidy will conduct a thorough evaluation, including taking X-rays, to assess the condition of the tooth and surrounding tissues. Depending on the complexity of the case, local anesthesia or IV sedation may be used to ensure the extraction is as painless as possible. For patients with anxiety or those undergoing more complex procedures, our office offers IV sedation to help you remain calm and relaxed throughout the process.


Once you are completely numbed, Dr. Hamidy will carefully extract the tooth using specialized dental tools such as forceps. For wisdom tooth removal, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. The entire process is done with gentle precision to minimize trauma to the gums and jawbone.

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Aftercare and Recovery

After the procedure, the healing process begins. Dr. Hamidy will provide you with specific instructions to follow, ensuring a smooth recovery. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Bleeding and Gauze:

    You may experience slight bleeding at the extraction site. Placing a gauze pad over the area and biting down will help form a blood clot, which is essential for proper healing.

  • Swelling:

    It’s normal to have some swelling following an extraction. Applying an ice pack to the cheek near the extraction site can help reduce swelling.

  • Pain Management:

     Dr. Hamidy will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort during the recovery period. Depending on your specific needs, over-the-counter medications may also be recommended.

  • Diet:

     Soft foods are recommended for the first few days after the extraction to avoid disturbing the healing site. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the area or dislodge the blood clot.

  • Smoking and Drinking:

     It’s important to avoid smoking or drinking through a straw during the healing process, as these actions can dislodge the clot, leading to a painful condition known as a dry socket.

  • Oral Hygiene:

     While keeping the mouth clean is essential, avoid brushing near the extraction site for the first 24 hours. Instead, gently rinse with a saltwater solution to prevent infection.

The recovery process typically takes about a week, but Dr. Hamidy will provide personalized advice based on your situation. You’ll have a follow-up appointment to ensure the healing progresses as expected.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction and Replacement Options

Once your wisdom teeth are removed, the other teeth may settle into a better alignment. However, if the extracted tooth is a visible or essential tooth, Dr. Hamidy will work with you to explore replacement options, such as dental implants, to maintain the function and appearance of your smile.


Dental implants are an excellent choice for replacing missing teeth because they function like natural teeth and provide long-lasting support to the jawbone. If you’re considering a dental implant after a tooth extraction, Dr. Hamidy will guide you through the process and help determine if it's the right option for you.

Compassionate Care and Expertise at La Jolla Dental Image

At La Jolla Dental Image, we are committed to delivering the highest quality dental care in a welcoming and professional environment. Dr. Hamidy’s expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery ensures that every tooth extraction, whether it’s a simple procedure or a more complex wisdom tooth removal, is performed with precision and care.


For more information on wisdom tooth removal or tooth extractions or to schedule your consultation, contact our office today at (858) 202-0481. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

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