Tooth Extractions: What to Expect
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March 3, 2021Tooth Extractions: What to Expect
Extraction of the tooth is sometimes inevitable when all the attempts to save it fails. Hearing the words “tooth extraction” creates feelings of nervousness and anxiety for many patients, which is quite very natural. If your dentist recommended tooth extraction, you may be wondering what to expect during the tooth extraction. An adequate understanding of the procedure will ease any anxiety. In this article, we have summarized the necessary information to alleviate all your fears and concerns about the tooth extraction and its post-op management.
Types of tooth extraction:
Simple tooth extraction
If your tooth is non-impacted, or enough tooth structure is present above the gum, the extraction may be called “simple” because the extraction process will not involve any removal of bone or gum tissue.
A simple tooth extraction is performed under local anesthesia, which will numb the site around the tooth. This will make sure that you will not feel any pain when the tooth is being extracted. You will feel mild pressure while the tooth is being pulled out. Remember not to confuse pressure with pain.
At Royal Dental, we use modern techniques and cutting-edge technology to make sure the tooth extraction procedure is comfortable for you.
Surgical tooth extraction
Conversely, if the tooth is grossly broken down, or it is deeply impacted, the extraction process becomes more complex. When this happens, the bone and tissue will need to be removed to expose the tooth and allow it to be removed with ease. While the word “complex” sounds scary, but the surgical tooth extraction procedure is not uncomfortable at all. Our expert oral surgeon will make the procedure so comfortable for you that you may be unaware of it during the procedure.
What to Expect During the Extraction Procedure?
Before starting the procedure, your Dentist/ Oral Surgeon will give you an injection of local anesthesia to numb the extraction area. After the area is numbed, the Oral Surgeon may apply force to luxate the tooth to loosen it, using dental instruments. After the tooth is mobile, it is pulled out by a Dentist. Afterward, your dentist may or may not place a few stitches to close the extraction wound.
What Happens After a Tooth is Extracted?
After the tooth is extracted, the area is cleaned and packed with a sterile gauze pad and you may be asked to bite down upon the gauze firmly in place for about 30 minutes and repeat if necessary, until the bleeding stops. It will help to form a blood clot which protects the tissues inside the tooth socket.
How long it will take to recover from extraction?
The majority of extraction patients make a quick recovery. The pain and discomfort should ease after about two to three days. If it takes more than three to four days, you should seek advice from your Dentist.
Tips and Tricks for Speedy recovery following tooth extraction:
To ensure a speedy and smooth recovery after the procedure, avoid
- Spitting repeatedly.
- Biting on the extraction site.
- Touching extraction area with tongue.
- Using a straw to drink liquids.
- Eating solid foods on the extraction site.
- Powerfully rinsing the mouth.
- Drinking alcoholic products.
- Smoking.
- Sleeping on the extraction site.
Do
- Take analgesics as prescribed.
- Apply an icepack to the cheek to reduce post-op swelling.
- Eat a soft diet.
- Take rest.
- Avoid hot meals and drinks.
- Start brushing over a day or two.
Following these tips will maximize your post-op comfort.
Are there any complications involved?
Like any surgical procedure, a tooth extraction may involve:
- Mild swelling
- Mild pain
- Bleeding
- Soreness
- Dry socket
- Bad breath
Fortunately, these are temporary and the patient recovers quickly. Infection is another complication that deserves particular attention and you should seek the advice of your Oral Surgeon immediately.
Summary:
- Tooth extraction is a painless procedure.
- Extraction may be simple or surgical.
- Minimal post-extraction discomfort.
- Healing and recovery may be quicker following Oral Surgeon guidelines.
Schedule a Consultation:
At Royal Dental, our dedicated team and experienced oral surgeon perform the tooth extraction procedure with minimal discomfort and ensure you stay calm and relaxed during the procedure.
If you need a tooth extraction or have questions or concerns related to the tooth extraction procedure. Call 713-330-7700 or Book your appointment online to schedule your consultation today.