Tooth extractions are easy to manage when you understand the removal process as well as recovery. Learn all you need to know here.

Tooth extractions can cause significant worry for many patients. The pain and the entire process may be enough for patients to avoid going to the dentist altogether.

But understanding the tooth extraction procedure can offset the anxiety. If you need to have a tooth pulled, here are some important things to know.

What Is a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves the pulling of a tooth. There are several reasons why your dentist might order a tooth extraction.

Sometimes teeth become damaged and they cannot stay in your mouth. The extent of the damage is too great and will continue to cause you problems. In this case, it should be pulled to avoid further problems.

Teeth also become infected for a variety of reasons, due to bacteria or poor dental habits. When a tooth is infected, and cannot be saved, the best course of action is to extract it so it doesn't infect the rest of your teeth. Infected teeth may also cause other health problems.

If you're having dental work, like orthodontia, and you have crowded teeth, your dentist may decide to extract a tooth to make room for your teeth to be straightened.

The Tooth Extraction Procedure

No matter what the reason for your tooth extraction, the process is relatively similar for each patient. There may be some variance due to the reason for your extraction, but overall, you can expect these steps to occur.

Before you schedule your extraction, your dentist should explain to you why you need an extraction. When you arrive for your appointment, the dentist will likely give you a local anesthetic that will numb the pain.

Once you begin to feel the anesthetic kick in, the dentist may cut away a part of your gum to expose the root of the tooth. This helps the dentist see the tooth better. Then, they will use a tool - usually forceps - to grasp the tooth and pull it out.

To avoid excessive bleeding or other problems, the dentist will pack the area with gauze and have you bite down to keep the gauze in place. Once the bleeding subsides, they will inform you of your take-home instructions.

Tooth Extraction Recovery

The recovery time for tooth extraction is on a case-by-case basis and on how many teeth you've had pulled, yet the pain usually subsides after a few days. Here are some things you can expect during your recovery.

Your dentist may administer an antibiotic. This is to prevent the spread of any infections. You may also take an over-the-counter medication to help the pain if your dentist recommends it.

Change your gauze as necessary, so it doesn't lead to infection. Biting down on the gauze pad puts pressure on the opening and causes it to clot.

You can apply ice to the area to prevent swelling.

Follow all eating and drinking instructions. Your dentist may recommend that you refrain from eating or drinking certain foods for a time.

Do You Need a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction doesn't have to be scary when you have a qualified and compassionate dentist working with you. If you think you may need to have a tooth pulled, contact our office today to see our dentist in Bayside, NY.

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