“You need to have it pulled.” This is not the ideal sentence to hear from your dentist, but extractions are a standard and straightforward procedure in dentistry. Numerous patients end up hearing this during an emergency visit due to pain, but with proper care and advanced techniques, most patients can boast minimal post op pain and quick healing.
Here is the scoop on what to know before, during, and after an extraction.
When is an Extraction Needed?
Although keeping your natural tooth is ideal, removal may be necessary in some cases. Your dentist will want to save it whenever possible, but here are some reasons an extraction would be recommended:
- Severe decay or damage that is beyond repair
- Infection that cannot be resolved via root canal therapy
- Gum disease that is advanced and causes the tooth to loosen
- Overcrowded or impacted teeth (usually wisdom teeth)
- Orthodontic-related reasons to create space for treatment
Extraction Types
Keep in mind that your dentist will explain which type is best for your specific case, and both are outpatient procedures.
- Simple Extraction- This is performed on visible teeth above the gum line.
- This is performed on teeth that are visible above the gum line and under local anesthesia.
- Surgical Extraction- This is performed on teeth that are broken, trapped, or impacted beneath the gum line.
- This is performed on teeth that are broken, trapped, or impacted under the gum. It requires a small incision to remove it safely.
Extraction Expectations During
Before the procedure, your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. This will cause some pressure, but not pain.
Once your dentist confirms you are numb, the tooth is carefully removed, the area is cleaned, and stitches may be placed if necessary.
The procedure typically takes an hour or less, and you can go home the same day.
Extraction Expectations After
Caring for yourself afterwards will support healing and help prevent complications.
- Control Bleeding by biting down on gauze for 30-45 minutes afterward
- Avoid smoking, spitting, or using a straw for 24 hours – this protects the blood clot
- Ice the outside of your cheek to keep swelling at bay
- Plan to be on a soft food diet for a few days
- Use prescribed medications or over-the-counter pain medications as directed.
Extraction Expectations: Post Op
Don’t be alarmed if you have some soreness and swelling for a few days; your body will take some time to heal. The gums will begin to close within a week, typically, but the tissue and bone won’t completely heal for a few weeks.
Make sure you continue brushing and flossing the area gently to keep it clean.
When to Call the Dentist
- Bleeding persists beyond 24 hours
- Large swelling you can see from the outside of your face, fever, and signs of infection
- Extreme pain that worsens over several days — may be a sign of dry socket
After Your Tooth is Removed
Your dentist may discuss replacement options which could include implant, bridge, or p, which could consist of an implant, a bridge, or a which could include an implant, a bridge, or a partial which could include an implant, a bridge, or a partial, which could consist of an implant, a bridge, or a partial which could include an implant, a bridge, or a partial atrial denture. Replacing a tooth can help maintain proper bite alignment and prevent shifting.
The bottom line on extractions – it is a procedure that can be stress-free. With careful care at home, paired with advanced techniques, you can expect to get out of pain, heal quickly, and keep your smile healthy.