When a tooth is too broken or infected to save, or a wisdom tooth is causing pain or damaging its neighbor, removing it is the kind thing to do. Dr. Kim plans extractions on a 3D scan, uses thorough local anesthesia, and works gently and without rushing. Wisdom teeth are removed here in our Hawthorne office in most cases. We speak English, Spanish and Korean.
When a tooth needs to come out
Common reasons are a tooth broken below the gum line, decay or infection too extensive for a root canal and crown, advanced gum disease that has loosened the tooth, and baby teeth that will not fall out on their own. If a tooth can be saved with a root canal and a crown, Dr. Kim tells you so first.
Wisdom teeth come in between about 17 and 25. When there is room and they come in straight and clean, they can stay. When they are impacted, partly through the gum, decayed or pushing on the next tooth, removal prevents infection and damage. A 3D CBCT scan in our office shows their position and the nerve nearby before anything is decided.
What to expect
A straightforward extraction is often finished in one short visit.
1. X-ray or 3D scan and a plan
A digital X-ray, or a 3D scan for wisdom teeth, shows the roots and the nerve. We explain the plan, the cost and how to prepare.
2. Numb, then gentle removal
The area is numbed completely before we start. You feel pressure, not pain. Impacted teeth may be divided and removed in pieces to protect the bone.
3. Aftercare and follow-up
You leave with gauze, written instructions, any prescriptions you need and our number. We check on healing and talk about replacing the tooth if it should be replaced.
Most people are back to normal activities the next day and eating comfortably within two or three days. Impacted wisdom teeth take about a week, with swelling peaking around day two. Complex cases, such as teeth wrapped around the nerve, are referred to an oral surgeon; most are not.
Cost and insurance
Extractions are covered by Denti-Cal (Medi-Cal Dental) and by most PPO plans, usually with a coinsurance for surgical or wisdom-tooth extractions. The fee depends on whether the tooth is simple or impacted, and you get it in writing before the visit. If the tooth should be replaced, we include the implant or bridge options in the same estimate.
Monthly payment plans are available through CareCredit, Cherry and Sunbit, subject to credit approval. We give you a written estimate before any treatment.
Dr. Kim's approach
Saving the tooth comes first; an extraction is recommended only when it is truly the better option. Once the decision is made, comfort matters most: complete numbing, a slow and gentle technique that protects the bone, and clear instructions so healing is uneventful.
We use local anesthesia rather than sedation, and we take the time to make sure you are numb and relaxed before we begin.
Why Happy Light Dental for extractions and wisdom teeth
3D imaging on site
A CBCT scan shows roots and nerves before a wisdom tooth is touched.
Gentle technique
Slow, bone-preserving removal with complete numbing.
Same-day help
Painful or infected teeth are fit in the same day during office hours whenever possible.
Your language
We speak English, Spanish and Korean.
Extraction and wisdom teeth questions
Ready to talk about extractions and wisdom teeth?
Call (310) 644-4648 or book online. Se habla español · 한국어 진료 가능.