There are many reasons why people might need a tooth extraction. This procedure can cause anxiety for many patients who don’t look into it further. Here are four commonly asked questions about tooth extraction to ease your fears.

What to Know About Tooth Extraction

What is it?

During a tooth extraction appointment, a dentist will use a local anesthetic that will numb the nerve that affects that  tooth and the tissue around it. If you are dealing with anxiety about the procedure, please talk to your dentist.  You might be a candidate to have sedation so that you will be less aware through the procedure.

If the tooth is impacted or still beneath the gum line, they may temporarily move the gum tissue to the side for easy access. Then, the dentist will use tools to slowly wiggle the tooth out of the socket and remove it.  Once the tooth is out, the team will rinse the socket and make sure it is healthy, before having you bite down on gauze to slow the bleeding.

Why might you need it? 

Many people get tooth extractions to remove wisdom teeth that are crowding their jaw. Having too many teeth can make your smile crooked and cause pain. It’s often best to remove the back teeth since they don’t aid in chewing.

Individuals with severe decay may benefit from tooth extraction if cavity treatment isn’t an option. Those with broken teeth may also undergo this procedure to make room for implants to fill the space.

Will it hurt?

Your dentist will help you manage tooth extraction pain through the local anesthetic given at the beginning of your appointment and some OTC analgesics, like ibuprofen or tylenol. They could even prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter drugs to take before the appointment. Many dentists recommend continuing to take the analgesics for the first 72 hours after having the tooth removed to limit the ache and ensure that you are comfortable.

What should I do for aftercare?

Keep the gauze in place for 60 minutes after the procedure to reduce bleeding. Follow the post-operative instructions that you were given at the end of your appointment. Eat only soft, pureed foods for the first 24 hours, or until you are able to tolerate a regular diet.

If you’re concerned that the wound isn't healing, contact the dentist to discuss this.  Sometimes, patient will develop a dry socket. This painful condition happens when the blood clot is displaced; it results in exposed bone and significant pain.  While is is rare, you really should contact your dentist to discuss your options.  

If you need a tooth extraction, contact Steckelberg Dental in Lincoln, NE. This practice offers general, cosmetic, and children’s dentistry as well as preventative care and periodontal disease treatment to patients throughout Lancaster County. Call (402) 489-7800 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information about their office.