Tooth extractions are a routine procedure that helps prevent more serious dental problems.
When something is difficult, we usually say it’s like pulling teeth—but in reality, tooth extraction is a routine procedure that helps prevent more serious dental problems. The most commonly needed extractions are usually wisdom teeth, but dentists may also remove a tooth if it’s coming in at an angle, threatening the position of other healthy teeth or contributing to overcrowding in the mouth.
In some cases, a broken tooth may also need to be extracted, as well as teeth with significant decay that cannot be treated by a root canal. Patients with advanced gum disease may be considered for an extraction as well. In the end, removing one potentially harmful tooth can often spare you hours of future treatment.
What to Expect When You’re Extracting
To begin, you’ll receive a local anesthetic to numb the tooth, jawbone and surrounding gums. Our skilled dentist or oral surgeon will begin to rock the tooth back and forth and rotate it to widen the socket for easier extraction. Because your pain receptors have been numbed, you’ll sense some dull pressure during this process, but shouldn’t feel any pain. When the tooth is fully detached, we will remove it and cover the exposed gum with a small piece of gauze.
Take Care
After your extraction, our office will explain how to ensure that you heal properly. In most cases, we will advise you to bite gently on your gauze for 30 minutes to an hour. It’s important that you follow our instructions exactly to avoid any further complications. Generally, these instructions will include:
- Applying ice to the jaw area if you experience swelling
- Continuing to brush, but avoiding the area surrounding the extraction
- Gently rinsing your mouth with water
- Taking an antibiotic or pain reliever, if needed
- Avoiding smoking or using a straw for at least 24 hours