What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

Thanks to advancements in the field of dentistry, the need for tooth extractions has decreased significantly over the past decade. Dentists today will try to save even the most severely damaged teeth rather than pull them out. But there are still times when a tooth extraction is necessary. If your dentist has suggested removing one of your teeth, and you’re concerned about what to expect from the operation itself and its recovery and aftercare, keep reading.

An Overview of the Tooth Extraction Procedure

Tooth extraction is a common surgery that typically takes up to an hour to accomplish. The procedure for removing a tooth consists of the following steps:

Anesthesia

First, your dentist will give you anesthetic to put you at ease while they work. The dentist may opt to use intravenous sedation if you tend to be overly anxious, fearful, or reluctant during dental procedures.  

Extraction of the Tooth

Once you are completely relaxed, your dentist will use a tool called an “elevator” to break the connections between your tooth, gums, and jawbone. Then, they will use a second elevator that works like a lever to move the tooth in its socket. 

Lastly, your dentist will use forceps and pull the tooth out by gently pushing outward on the tooth in a controlled way. To learn more about the tooth extraction procedure, check out this link.

Socket Cleaning

After the tooth has been extracted, your dentist will clean the socket and put pressure on it with a clean gauze pad to stop the bleeding. Biting over the socket for some time helps produce a healthy clot, which eventually turns into bone and fills the socket. 

Aftercare Treatment

During healing, the main goal is to keep the blood clot in place. If the clot moves, it can cause a painful condition called a dry socket. To avoid this problem, your dentist will put pressure on the wound after the extraction to ensure the clot starts forming. Remember, follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, eat soft foods, and avoid using a straw for at least two weeks following your surgery so that the blood clot your mouth utilizes to repair the area doesn’t get dislodged.

You can control swelling by putting ice packs on your face and taking painkillers. Most dentists want you to come back to check on your dental health, especially after surgery, to ensure that no problem will arise.

The Importance of Preventive Dental Care to Avoid Tooth Extraction

Keeping your teeth and gums in good health and warding off the need for tooth extraction requires regular preventive dental care. The early warning signs of oral problems can be detected and effectively treated at regularly scheduled dental examinations, cleanings, as well as teeth scaling and root planing. Brushing twice a day and flossing are just two examples of good oral hygiene routines that can lower the risk of dental problems. 

A balanced diet and reducing sugary or acidic foods and drinks can also help protect the teeth. Without proper care, dental issues can spread to the point where extraction is the only option. 

Conclusion

Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary, and understanding what to expect during and after the surgery can ease your concerns and help you make informed decisions. The procedure typically takes minimal time, and aftercare treatment is essential to ensure proper healing. Regular preventive dental care is also important in avoiding the need for tooth extraction, and good oral hygiene practices can help prevent oral problems. Remember, taking care of your teeth can save you pain, inconvenience, and financial cost in the future.