Whenever you hear about tooth extraction or having a tooth “pulled,” what usually goes on your mind? Some would always associate it with something daunting, like the ones we usually see in movies.
In reality, tooth extraction is usually the last resort to try and help you feel at ease from the pain. But for some dental issues, it might even be the best solution given to you.
Let’s help you find out what these dental issues are, the typical teeth extraction procedure, and other things you may expect when you get your tooth pulled.
Why Would I Need a Tooth Extraction?
Dentists do not check your tooth and immediately recommend getting your tooth extracted. In fact, they likely want to save your natural tooth as much as possible because extracting a tooth from the bone structure will create a shift for the rest of the teeth.
Also, if a tooth extraction is done, it’s likely that your healthcare provider might also recommend you get a dental implant to prevent the shifting—which turns out to be more costly.
However, there are still a variety of reasons why a dentist may recommend tooth extraction for your case, including:
- Severe Decay or Infection: If you have tooth decay and the damage has reached deep within, an extraction may prevent the infection from spreading.
- Crowding: For some people with a complex case of crowded teeth, removing the tooth can create the space needed for orthodontic treatment.
- Gum Disease: In cases of advanced gum disease where the disease has already spread around, the tissue becomes weakened. When that happens, it will lead to tooth loss or a need for tooth extraction.
- Impacted Teeth: The most involved teeth here are wisdom teeth. Because they grow late in a person’s life, they do not often have enough space around the mouth to grow properly. As a result, they often cause pain or misalignment.
- Dental Injuries: When a dental injury is too severe that the tissue cannot hold the tooth anymore, your dentist might also recommend taking your tooth out.
What to Expect During a Teeth Extraction Procedure
For many, the thought of the teeth extraction procedure may bring some nerves. However, we think it’s necessary for you to know what you should expect during a teeth extraction procedure to help make you feel comfortable.
Here’s what you can typically expect during a teeth extraction procedure:
- Initial Consultation and Exam: During your initial consultation, your dentist will examine the tooth in question and may take X-rays to see the condition of the tooth. This helps the dentist have an idea of what to do and recommend a solution for you. If an extraction is the solution, this will also be the time for them to plan the extraction and decide whether a simple or surgical extraction is required.
- Anaesthesia: The area around the tooth will be numbed with local anaesthesia to ensure you’re experience during the procedure is calm and relaxed. For patients with anxiety, sedation options are also available, like twilight sedation, general anaesthesia, nitrous oxide, or oral conscious sedation, to help make the experience as comfortable as possible.
- Extraction Process: In a simple extraction, the dentist will gently loosen and remove the tooth with specialised tools. In surgical extractions, which are generally used for impacted teeth, a small incision may be made in the gum.
- Post-Extraction Care – Once the extraction is done, the socket will be cleaned to remove any debris. Then, a gauze or cotton will be placed over the extraction site to control bleeding. In some cases, stitches may be required to close the gum tissue.
Your dentist will then give you some instructions on how you can manage pain and some tips for a successful tooth extraction recovery.
How Long Do Teeth Extractions Take to Heal?
Not every person has the same period of time to heal from an extraction. Recovery time for this procedure can vary depending on the individual and their effort to look after the extracted site, but there is a general timeline for most cases:
- Initial Healing: The soft tissue around the extraction site generally starts healing within the first 1 to 2 weeks. This is when discomfort should significantly subside.
- Bone Healing: Complete bone healing can take a few months, with the initial discomfort generally fading after a week or two. But most people resume their daily routine within just a few days after the extraction.
Following your dentist’s instructions and attending any follow-up appointments will ensure that the healing process stays on track.
Does Extracting Teeth Hurt?
One common question that’s usually asked from us is, “Does extracting teeth hurt?” Thanks to local anaesthesia and, if needed, sedation options, patients typically feel little discomfort during the procedure itself. Most patients report only a sensation of pressure as the tooth is removed.
Once the anaesthesia wears off, you may feel mild pain and discomfort, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. That’s why it’s best advised to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to minimise discomfort and prevent complications like dry sockets.
Your Path to a Healthier Smile
After we talked about tooth extraction, it doesn’t sound that intimidating now, right? If you’re still anxious, that’s fine. Remember that tooth extraction is no longer a foreign procedure to do and has advanced already since it was discovered. It may even benefit you in the long term to save your dental health.
If you want to consult with a dentist in Toongabbie or within the surrounding areas, give us a call at Dentist Near Me Toongabbie. Our experienced and compassionate staff are here to help you with your dental concerns.
Call us or book an online appointment with our dental professionals today!
