Whenever a visit to the dentist leads to surgery, there's going to be a bit of anxiety involved, especially when said surgery is a tooth extraction. It's a completely normal reaction, but it's important to remember that procedures like these are among the most commonly performed in many family dentistry practices.  

There are a variety of reasons why you might undergo tooth extraction surgery, from teeth that are damaged beyond repair to impacted wisdom teeth to problems with joints in the jaw and beyond. With that in mind, what should you expect before, during, and after the procedure? 

A Guide to the Tooth Extraction Process

Pre-Surgery

Your first step will involve a thorough dental examination. That includes a study of your medical and dental history, a full list of medications, and any known allergies. Your dentist will take an x-ray to determine the best method of extraction, and antibiotics may be required before the actual procedure. 

The Extraction

Once local anesthetic has been applied to the area, the tooth extraction can begin. With the numbing agent in place, you should only feel the pressure that comes along with removal, so don't worry about experiencing a high degree of pain. In fact, if you do end up feeling pain during the procedure, you should let your oral surgeon know right away. 

Post-Surgery

With the tooth out, you will need to bite down on a strip of gauze to create enough pressure to form a blood clot. Despite the presence of the clot, you should still expect minimal bleeding for the next 24 hours. The most important steps will simply involve following all necessary instructions, including taking the proper pain medication, consuming appropriate foods and beverages, and cleaning in a way that promotes healing. 

It typically takes around two weeks for the tooth extraction site to seal, and the bone and soft tissue in the area will follow suit over the next few months. As long as you take good care of yourself and listen to your dentist, you'll come out of the process feeling better than ever. 

Whether you're due for a checkup or in need of corrective measures, Kemper Pond Dental is the go-to clinic in the Cincinnati, OH, area. Call them at (513) 531-4069 to set up an appointment today, and check out their website for a full overview of their general and cosmetic dentistry services.