Urgent Tooth Extractions

Comprehensive Care for Every Smile

Urgent Tooth Extractions

Our Urgent Tooth Extractions Options

Safe and gentle emergency extractions when saving a tooth isn\'t possible.

At Glendale Dental Wellness, Dr. Ivan Chan always makes every effort to save a natural tooth whenever possible. However, in some cases, an urgent tooth extraction is the best way to relieve pain, stop infection, and protect your overall health. If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, trauma, or infection, we provide same-day emergency extractions in Glendale, CA, with a gentle and patient-focused approach.

Our priority is always to keep you comfortable while restoring your oral health as quickly as possible.

When Is an Emergency Extraction Needed?

An urgent extraction may be necessary if a tooth is:

Even in these cases, Dr. Chan will explore all alternatives before recommending extraction.

• Severely decayed and beyond repair
• Broken or fractured below the gumline
• Loosened due to advanced gum disease
• Infected, with a risk of spreading to other teeth or the jawbone
• Causing severe pain that cannot be resolved otherwise
• Impacted or creating complications

Urgent vs. Routine Extraction

An urgent extraction is performed when a tooth cannot wait for a scheduled appointment. This might be due to severe pain, infection with swelling or fever, or trauma. Dr. Chan prioritizes emergency patients and will accommodate same-day extractions to relieve your pain and prevent complications.

Routine extractions are scheduled in advance and planned carefully, while urgent extractions are performed as quickly as possible with safety as the priority.

The Emergency Extraction Process

Here\'s what to expect during an urgent extraction:

Emergency extractions are performed with the same skill and care as routine ones, just with faster scheduling.

• Immediate Assessment – Dr. Chan examines the tooth and takes necessary X-rays to assess the situation.
• Anesthesia – Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area. If infection is present, anesthesia may take slightly longer to become effective.
• Extraction – Dr. Chan carefully removes the tooth using appropriate techniques.
• Infection Management – If infection is present, the area is carefully cleaned and may be treated with antibiotics or medicated dressings.
• Socket Care – The socket is cleaned and prepared for healing.
• Aftercare Instructions – You receive detailed instructions to promote proper healing.

Managing Pain During Extraction

Your comfort is our priority. We use:

Don\'t hesitate to let Dr. Chan know if you\'re uncomfortable during the procedure.

• Effective Local Anesthesia – Thoroughly numbs the tooth and surrounding area
• Sedation Options – Available for patients with severe anxiety
• Gentle Techniques – Minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues
• Post-Operative Pain Management – Prescribed or recommended pain medications

Recovery After Emergency Extraction

Recovery after an urgent extraction follows the same timeline as a routine extraction, though your circumstances may be different:

First 24 Hours

Protecting the blood clot is critical for healing.

• Bite on gauze for 30-45 minutes to control bleeding
• Rest and avoid strenuous activity
• Apply ice to reduce swelling
• Take prescribed antibiotics if infection was present
• Take pain medication as needed
• Avoid hot foods and drinks
• Don\'t rinse, spit forcefully, or use straws

Days 2-7

Most acute discomfort resolves within a few days.

• Continue antibiotics as prescribed
• Gently rinse with warm salt water after meals
• Eat soft foods
• Continue pain medication as needed
• Avoid strenuous exercise

Long-Term Healing

Complete bone healing takes several months, but you\'ll feel much better within the first week or two.

Infection and Antibiotics

If your urgent extraction was due to infection, Dr. Chan may prescribe antibiotics to:

Take all prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed, even if you feel better. Never stop antibiotics early.

• Clear any remaining infection
• Prevent the infection from spreading
• Support proper healing

Preventing Complications

To avoid complications after your extraction:

These precautions minimize your risk of complications like dry socket or infection.

• Follow All Aftercare Instructions – Dr. Chan\'s instructions are designed to promote healing and prevent problems
• Don\'t Disturb the Socket – Avoid touching, rinsing, or poking the area
• Maintain Oral Hygiene – Keep other areas clean without disturbing the extraction site
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol – These can interfere with healing
• Eat Soft Foods – Avoid anything that could disturb the socket or cause injury
• Take Medications as Prescribed – Antibiotics and pain relievers should be taken as directed

Replacing an Urgently Extracted Tooth

After an urgent extraction, you\'ll want to discuss replacement options:

Dr. Chan will discuss your options and help you choose the best replacement for your situation.

• Dental Implants – The gold standard replacement that requires waiting for bone healing (typically 3-6 months)
• Dental Bridge – A fixed bridge anchored to adjacent teeth
• Partial Denture – A removable option

When to Call for Help

Contact our office immediately if you experience:

These symptoms may indicate a complication requiring immediate attention.

• Excessive bleeding that doesn\'t stop after 30 minutes
• Severe pain not controlled by medication
• Fever or chills
• Swelling that worsens after 3 days
• Signs of allergic reaction to medication
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Schedule Your Emergency Extraction

If you have a tooth that needs urgent extraction, don\'t wait. Contact Glendale Dental Wellness immediately at 818-243-3838. Dr. Ivan Chan is ready to provide same-day emergency care to relieve your pain and restore your oral health.