We’ve all heard the expression many times, and perhaps you’ve said it yourself: trying to do something that’s difficult, painful, or frustrating is “like pulling teeth.” But, in fact, tooth extractions are not the grueling task you believe them to be. The guide below explains what it’s really like to have a tooth pulled.

When Is Tooth Extraction Needed?

Dentists may recommend tooth extractions to correct a variety of dental problems. Many people get their wisdom teeth removed because, by the time those teeth come in, there is no room for them in the mouth and they have become trapped beneath the gums. In the case of an infected tooth, often a root canal can save it, but sometimes having the tooth pulled is the best way to eliminate the pain. An infection in the gums or jawbone can cause teeth to become loose, prompting the need for removal.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Many patients start by receiving a local anesthetic injection to numb the area around the tooth. However, those with severe dental anxiety may be able to receive general anesthesia so they can sleep through the procedure. Then, using forceps, the dentist will gently rock the tooth back and forth until it comes loose in a routine they’ve likely completed many times before. If decay has caused a tooth to break, the dentist typically removes it one piece at a time. To remove an impacted tooth, the dentist might need to cut away a bit of gum tissue or bone to loosen it.

What Is the Recovery Process Like?

After removing the tooth, the dentist packs the socket with gauze and has the patient bite down to stop any bleeding. The dentist may place a few self-dissolving stitches at the extraction site so the gums will close over the empty socket and prescribe an antibiotic to ward off infection. They might also suggest a pain medicine to reduce discomfort during recovery. Otherwise, you can manage any lingering soreness and swelling by taking over-the-counter pain medication and applying an ice pack periodically. To help the healing process, get plenty of rest and eat only soft foods for the first 24 hours after the extraction, and avoid drinking through a straw and smoking.

Allen S. Braumiller Jr. DDS, PC has been providing quality dentistry services for patients of all ages in Coweta, OK, and the surrounding communities for more than 30 years. Whether you and your family need oral exams, fillings, tooth extractions, or dentures, you can trust Dr. Braumiller and his team to give you the personalized dental care you deserve. Call (918) 486-6516 today to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about the practice’s services.