During tooth extraction, a dentist safely removes a tooth from its socket. There are several reasons why an extraction might be performed, including decay or damage, injury to the tooth, or to create additional room for other teeth to grow in. To better understand this dental procedure, below are answers to common questions about tooth extraction.

FAQ About Tooth Extraction

What happens during the procedure?

There are two types of extractions: simple and surgical. A simple extraction is performed on a visible and fully-emerged tooth. First, the dentist loosens it with a tool called an elevator and then removes it with small forceps. A surgical extraction is performed on a tooth that has broken off or has not yet fully emerged from the gums. The dentist or oral surgeon will make a tiny incision in the gum around the tooth, and they may need to break the tooth in half or remove some of the bone to cleanly remove it.

Can I eat or drink after an extraction?

For the first few days after the procedure, most people consume softer foods. For more complex surgical extractions, you may want to stick to a liquid diet until any lingering discomfort has subsided. Be sure, however, to avoid straw usage, as the sucking action can loosen stitches and cause pain or bleeding.

How long is the recovery time?

This usually depends on the extent of the surgery, though a good general estimate is seven to 10 days for a full recovery. With a simple extraction, the recovery time is usually much shorter, and you'll likely feel ready to resume daily activities within a day or two. Surgical extraction may require several days of downtime before you're comfortable with returning to normal activities.

Do I have to get the stitches removed?

It depends. Some tooth extractions are sutured with dissolvable stitches that disintegrate on their own over time. Other extractions may require traditional stitches, but the removal process is simple, fast, and painless.

Don't feel intimidated by tooth extraction. Drs Bradford and Catchings Family Dentistry offer a range of dental care services, including tooth extractions, to patients throughout Augusta County, VA. They also provide cosmetic dentistry options designed to transform and brighten your smile. Schedule an appointment by calling (540) 213-1966 or visit them online to read about their preventive care tips.