When a tooth is damaged to the point that it can’t be repaired, a tooth extraction may be necessary. Understandably, many patients feel anxious about this type of procedure. However, it is not the painful, uncomfortable procedure people often imagine it to be. The following information will help you better understand the process, making it easier to feel comfortable with your treatment.

A Brief Guide to Tooth Extractions

1. First Steps

To ensure you experience minimal discomfort, the dentist will start by numbing the area around your tooth with a local anesthetic. If you’re having multiple teeth removed, then they’ll probably use a general anesthetic.

You should remain numb throughout the entire procedure. However, if you’re afraid of the anesthetic wearing off, speak with the dental care team beforehand to agree on a signal you can give to indicate you’re starting to feel pain. Family dentistry professionals are used to patients feeling anxious about their treatment and will happily work with you to boost your comfort.

2. Procedure

To extract the tooth, the dentist will grip it with forceps, rock it back and forth to loosen it, then gently remove it from the socket. The procedure is very quick, and again, you’re not likely to feel any discomfort. Some teeth may need to be cleared in several pieces if they are difficult to pull. However, if a tooth is impacted, it may be necessary to cut at the bone and gum tissue first.

3. Recovery

Since blood will clot around the socket, your dentist will insert gauze and stitch up the wound if need be. The stitches will dissolve on their own later. You’re unlikely to experience much discomfort as you recover, but you should still avoid eating hard foods for the next few days. Take over-the-counter painkillers if it’s bothering you, and contact the dental office if your discomfort is more substantial.

Do you need a tooth extraction in the Hazard, KY, area? If so, get in touch with the office of Jim S. Caudill, DMD, PSC. Serving the region since 1975, Dr. Caudill and his team will take all the necessary steps to ensure you’re comfortable with the procedure. In addition to this, they also offer state-of-the-art implants and cosmetic dentistry. Contact them online for more information, or call (606) 436-3432 today to schedule an appointment.