It’s understandable to be nervous about an upcoming tooth extraction. After all, the procedure doesn’t exactly sound comfortable on the surface. Fortunately, when you dig into the details, tooth extractions can actually be quick and painless. Many patients even report that their discomfort during treatment was far less bothersome than the ache their troublesome tooth was causing!
If you’d like to know more about the tooth extraction process, keep reading. Having an idea of what to expect could help calm your nerves.
Step 1: Pain Management
The very first thing your dentist will do is secure your comfort. After getting settled in the patient’s chair, they’ll administer a local anesthetic that will numb the gums and oral tissue around your troubled tooth. Helping you feel more at ease might include measures to decrease your anxiety.
Step 2: Extraction
Once the anesthetic has taken full effect, it’s time to start removing your tooth. Your dentist will use a different method depending on the situation, like so:
- A simple extraction works well for teeth that have fully grown above the gumline. Your dentist will simply wiggle the pearly white loose and gently pull it free.
- Surgical extractions are necessary in cases where the tooth is fully or partially trapped below the gumline. Your dentist will make a small incision to access the tooth, and may section it into pieces to better facilitate a safe removal.
You’ll likely know which type of extraction you’ll need before your dentist proceeds with treatment. During your initial consultation, X-rays should reveal the state of your tooth, so neither you nor your dentist will be surprised!
Step 3: Aftercare and Recovery
While generally beneficial for your oral health, pulling a tooth does expose the empty socket to the elements, making it crucial to follow any aftercare instructions your dentist provides. Here’s an idea of what those instructions might include:
- Taking pain medication as necessary
- Applying a cold compress from time to time
- Eating and drinking a soft food diet
- Keeping a consistent oral hygiene routine
- Avoiding spitting or drinking with a straw
- Avoiding strenuous activity
- Reporting abnormal symptoms like fever, discharge, or excessive swelling
Step 4: Follow-Up
Follow-up with your dentist after the recovery period is just as important as taking good care of your empty socket! This allows your dentist to monitor your progress and make sure your mouth is healing properly. Attend any and all follow-up appointments they schedule.
That’s the tooth extraction process in a nutshell! When all is said and done, you can look forward to restored oral health and relief from toothaches. If you have any questions about the finer details of the process, remember to ask your friendly dentist!
About the Author
Dr. Russell O’Connell earned his dental degree from the University of New England College of Dental Medicine and graduated as part of their inaugural class. He has completed several advanced training courses since then, allowing him to provide higher quality care for both routine and specialty treatments. To contact Dr. O’Connell with questions about tooth extractions or other dental matters, call his office at 908-832-2300.