No one wants to have their tooth pulled. After all, the experience doesn’t sound pleasant. However, sometimes a tooth extraction is needed to preserve the health and wellbeing of the rest of your smile. Fortunately, your dentist will do everything they can to make this experience as comfortable as possible. Continue reading to learn more about tooth extractions and what you can expect on the day of your appointment.
Numbing the Site
Before your dentist starts addressing the tooth, they will numb the area with a local anesthetic. You might feel a small pinch as the anesthetic is administered. After just a few minutes, you shouldn’t be able to feel any discomfort or sensation in that area.
Tooth Removal
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 removing your tooth, your dentist will close the space where your tooth was previously. If any lost bone or infected tissue is present, this will be removed. The socket will be compressed so it can return to its original size. Lastly, your dentist will apply some pressure to the area with clean gauze to minimize bleeding.
Recovery Period
It will take several days for you to recover from a tooth extraction. You might need to keep gauze on the site to retain pressure for about 30 to 60 minutes to stop bleeding. If you have any swelling in this area, use a cold compress to reduce this. Here are some other steps to make your recovery period as quick and comfortable as possible.
- Change gauze as necessary
- Get plenty of rest
- Take prescribed and over-the-counter medication as directed by your dentist
- When drinking liquids, avoid using a straw
- Refrain from smoking until the area has healed
- Be careful when brushing and flossing
Soreness and swelling are normal and common after having a tooth extracted. They should be easy to manage with medication recommended by your dentist. If you encounter extensive bleeding, severe pain, fever, extensive discharge, or anything else that concerns you, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. This way, they can provide you with further instructions to help you recover quickly and comfortably.
About the Practice
At Kemper Meadow Family Dentistry, Dr. Alexandra Kulwin and Dr. Jasmina Maric work together to treat patients in the Cincinnati area. With their combined experience 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 (513) 648-9900.