When you’re told that you need to have a tooth removed to treat a dental emergency, it’s natural to feel nervous and uncertain. Will the procedure hurt? What exactly will your experience be like? Knowing exactly what you can expect during an extraction can make the process much less frightening and help you prepare ahead of time. The following post provides a brief outline of the tooth extraction procedure and what you might feel during the experience.
What is the Tooth Extraction Process?
There are two tooth removal procedures: simple extraction and surgical extraction. For simple extraction, the tooth is loosened with an instrument called an elevator before being removed by forceps. For a surgical extraction, first the tooth is numbed with a shot of anesthetic. Then the socket holding the tooth is enlarged so that your dentist can separate the tooth from the ligaments holding it in place. Sometimes the tooth is divided into sections that are removed one at a time. After the tooth is removed, the surgical site is closed, and gauze is placed over it to reduce bleeding. They’ll then give you instructions for recovery at home.
What Will You Feel During Your Extraction?
First and foremost, it’s important to note that you won’t feel any pain. The local anesthetic will stop your nerves from transmitting pain signals to your brain, allowing you to stay comfortable during the process. (Let your dentist know if you do experience discomfort; additional anesthetic can be applied as needed.) However, you will still feel some pressure as a result of the tooth being rocked back and forth. Furthermore, you may hear a minor snap or creaking sound during the extraction; this is completely natural when working with hard tissues, so don’t be alarmed.
What About After the Procedure?
It’s normal to feel some pain after the local anesthetic wears off, and you may notice swelling and residual bleeding as well. It usually takes a few days to fully recover from the procedure. You can take over the counter or prescription painkillers to manage your discomfort, and an ice bag can also help keep down swelling when applied to the surgical area for 10-minute intervals. Eat soft foods while the extraction site is healing. If the pain fails to subside over time or becomes severe, call your dentist immediately; there may have been a complication that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
If you’re still nervous about your tooth extraction, let your dentist know. They can answer any further questions you might have, and they can recommend methods that can help you stay comfortable during and after the procedure. Remember: while nobody wants to undergo a tooth extraction, it’s much better than the alternative in terms of your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Walter Mick has been providing comprehensive dental care for families in and around Reynoldsburg for more than 30 years. He is experienced in removing teeth in a way that minimizes discomfort, and he is trained in replacing them via implant and complex restorative dentistry. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mick at Mick Family Dental Care and learn more about the extraction process, visit his website or call (614) 864-4618.