What Does It Feel Like to Have a Tooth Extracted?

Do you have a tooth extraction coming up? No one wants to get their tooth pulled; however, this procedure is sometimes necessary to preserve the health of the rest of your smile. Tooth extractions are very common, but they can sound intimidating. Read on to learn more about tooth extractions and their step-by-step process so you know exactly what you can expect.

Numbing the Site

Before your dentist starts to address your troublesome tooth, they will numb the surrounding area with a local anesthetic. You may feel a small pinch as the anesthetic is administered. After just a few minutes, you shouldn’t be able to feel a thing.

Tooth Extraction

During the extraction itself, your dentist will rock your tooth back and forth. This is done to widen the socket so it can be separated from the ligament. Then, they will grasp the tooth with forceps and pull it from the socket.

Closing the Space

After your tooth has been removed, your dentist will close the space where it used to be. If there is any bone or infected tissue left behind, they will remove this as well. The socket will then be compressed so it can return to its original size. Lastly, your dentist will apply the pressure to the area with clean gauze to minimize and eliminate any bleeding.

Recovery Period

It takes several days to a week for you to recover from a tooth extraction. You may need to keep gauze on the site to retain pressure for about 30 to 60 minutes to stop the bleeding. If you have swelling in the area, use a cold compress to reduce this. Here are some other steps to make your recovery period go as smoothly and comfortably as possible.

• Change gauze as needed
• Get plenty of rest
• Don’t use a straw when drinking
• Don’t smoke until the area heals
• Be careful when brushing and flossing around the surgical site
• Take prescribed and over-the-counter medications as directed by your dentist

Soreness and swelling are both normal and natural parts of the healing process after getting a tooth extracted. They should be easy to manage with medications recommended by your dentist. If you experience extensive bleeding, severe pain, fever, extensive discharge, or anything else that concerns you, don’t hesitate to let your dentist know. Give them a call so they can give you further advice to help you recover smoothly.

About the Practice

At Ellicott City Smiles Dental Gorup, we have a team of skilled dentists, including a periodontist, dental anesthesiologist, prosthodontist, oral surgeon, endodontist, and two general dentists. With their combined specialties and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about tooth extractions or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (410) 465-3224.