While dentists try to save natural teeth if possible, some situations call for extraction. A tooth extraction can be an easy procedure that can improve oral health and allow for restoration and orthodontic work to take place.
Patients may feel uncertain about tooth extractions, believing the healing process is extensive and takes a long time. However, healing from a tooth extraction takes only a few days to a few weeks.
This blog explains why teeth need to be extracted, describes the process of extraction, and helps patients understand the natural healing process.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction
- Broken or decayed tooth that a filling or crown cannot repair
- Partially knocked-out (luxated) tooth
- Presence of infection that a root canal cannot treat
- Advanced gum disease that has irreparably damaged the bone and supporting tissues
- Impacted teeth: These are blocked from natural eruption by bone or gum tissue. They may cause infections, problems with tooth alignment, and discomfort.
- Necessary for orthodontic treatment
- Planning to replace a damaged tooth with a bridge or implant
How Dentists Extract Teeth
The first step in a tooth extraction is receiving local anesthesia. Most patients tolerate simple tooth extractions well, but many dentists offer sedation dentistry options if you feel anxious.
Next, the dentist uses an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth without damaging its neighbors. Gently, the dentist rocks the tooth back and forth to separate it from the jawbone. In complex cases additional procedures may be necessary to loosen the tooth. Using forceps, the dentist takes the tooth out of the socket.
You may need sutures on your gum after your tooth extraction. Dentists often use dissolvable sutures.
The Healing Process
Bleeding
Immediately after your tooth extraction, your dentist will give you a roll or pad of gauze to bite. Pressure helps the bleeding slow down, eventually stopping.
Swelling
You will experience some swelling on the gum, jaw, and cheek. Swelling is normal and a healthy reaction to the surgery. For the first 18 to 48 hours, apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek. Apply the ice pack for 15 minutes to a half-hour every one to two hours.
You may experience swelling for up to a week. It could be followed by bruising.
Caring for Your Surgery Site
Do not rinse or spit for the first night following your extraction. Also, do not use a straw, suck on a water bottle, or smoke for at least 48 hours to avoid dislodging the beneficial blood clot in your socket.
The morning after your extraction, start rinsing with warm salt water, especially after meals. Brush your teeth, but avoid your surgery site for several days.
Pain Medication
You may feel discomfort after your procedure. You can take the medication your dentist prescribes or use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. You may experience the most pain on the second or third day, but each day afterward, you should improve.
Antibiotics
Some patients need antibiotics after an extraction. Take them as directed without skipping doses, and take the entire course of medication.
Diet Changes
Wait until your local anesthetic has worn off completely before trying to eat. Otherwise, you may bite your lips, tongue, or cheeks, causing injury. Avoid eating or drinking anything hot in temperature for at least the first day. Avoid spicy, hard, or crunchy foods until the surgery site heals. You can begin to eat your regular diet as your comfort allows.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions
How long does a tooth extraction take?
A tooth extraction generally takes no longer than 30 minutes. However, if the tooth is impacted or has complications, the procedure may take longer.
Should I call the dentist if my extraction site begins to hurt again?
Always call your dentist if you have any concerns about the healing process or feel something is wrong. Conditions like dry sockets can develop and cause discomfort, but your dentist can quickly treat them.
Call Suwanee Family Dentistry
A tooth extraction may seem intimidating, but it is easier than many patients believe. The healing process should be over in a matter of days to weeks, allowing you to live without pain and move forward with future dental work. If you believe you need a tooth extraction or have any questions about the procedure, please call our Suwanee, GA, office at 678-714-2380.