No one wants to get a tooth pulled. After all, removing a permanent tooth sounds like nothing pleasant. However, sometimes an extraction is necessary to preserve the health of the rest of your smile. The good news is that your dentist will do everything they can to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Continue reading to learn more about tooth extractions and the different steps you can anticipate.
Numbing the Site
Before your dentist starts addressing your troubled tooth, they will numb the area surrounding it with a local anesthetic. You may feel a small pinch as the anesthetic is administered. After a few minutes, you shouldn’t be able to feel a thing in that area.
Tooth Extraction
During the extraction itself, your dentist will rock your tooth back and forth. This is done to widen the socket so it can be separated from the ligament. Then, they will grasp the tooth with forceps and pull it from the socket.
Closing the Space
After removing your tooth, your dentist will close the space where it used to be. If any lost bone or infected tissue is present, this will be removed. The socket will be compressed so it can return to its original size. Lastly, your dentist will apply some pressure to the area with clean gauze to minimize bleeding.
Recovery Period
It will take several days for you to recover from a tooth extraction. You may need to keep gauze on the site and retain pressure for about 30 to 60 minutes to stop bleeding. If you have any swelling in the area, use a cold compress to reduce this. Here are some other steps to take to make your recovery period as quick and comfortable as possible:
• Change gauze as needed
• Get plenty of rest
• Take prescribed and over-the-counter medications as directed by your dentist
• When drinking liquids, don’t use a straw
• Refrain from smoking until the area has healed
• Be careful around the surgical site when brushing and flossing.
Soreness and swelling are normal and common after getting a tooth extraction. They should be easy to manage with medication recommended by your dentist. If you experience any extensive bleeding, severe pain, fever, extensive discharge, or anything else that concerns you, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. This way, they can give you further instructions to help you recover smoothly.
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Baldelli is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over a decade. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine, graduating with honors. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Rhode Island Dental Association, and the Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) Honor Society. To learn more about tooth extractions or schedule an appointment at his office in Newport, visit his website or call (401) 847-7662.