You may have an upcoming tooth extraction and are experiencing nervousness about it. You think that removing a tooth has to be painful and uncomfortable, right? We have these ideas that extraction is a long, arduous process with a lengthy recovery time that leaves you on your back for several days. Nothing could be further from the truth. In this post, you’ll find discussion about the steps of tooth extraction and why none of them are to be dreaded!
Comfortably Numb
The first thing the dentist or hygienist will do to make you comfortable is to numb the extraction area with a local anesthetic. You may feel a slight pinch when they inject the drugs into your gums, but that’s about it.
Once the spot is numb, the dentist will use a specialized tool called an elevator to loosen the tooth, then use forceps to grasp and remove the tooth from the socket. Patients don’t complain about pain specifically during this step, but rather, say they feel “pressure” from the force being applied.
Sometimes, dentists have to make one or more incisions in the gums to access a tooth, especially if your tooth is badly decayed or has broken off at the gum. This would happen only after anesthesia has been applied, so you should not feel any pain.
Sedation Dentistry Options
If you have intense anxiety about tooth extraction, there are options available via sedation to make you more relaxed. One method is called IV sedation, which involves intravenously administering powerful, anti-anxiety medication directly into the bloodstream. Because it’s a direct injection, the effects are felt quickly. You may feel sleepy, but you’ll be able to respond to simple questions and instructions. What you’ll mostly feel is a deep sense of relaxation and lightness.
The Recovery Period
Once the procedure is complete and the numbing agent wears off, some patients feel soreness and discomfort in their mouth, but this is usually mild and can be tolerated with the use of over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe painkillers while you convalesce.
Avoiding a Painful Condition
A condition known as dry socket can occur if the blood clot over the extraction area comes loose. It is a very painful mishap and can land you right back in the dentist’s chair if you’re not careful.
During recovery, stick to a diet of soft foods and avoid drinking through a straw or smoking cigarettes. The sucking component involved in these actions can loosen the clot. Also, steer clear of any strenuous activity while recovering, like exercise or hard manual labor. The increased blood flow to the mouth isn’t good for the blood clot.
Thanks to the benefits of modern dentistry and local anesthetics, tooth extraction is a virtually painless procedure that is performed around the world daily. You may feel some sensations, but actual pain is uncommon. Be careful during your recovery period to prevent dry socket from occurring.
About the Practice
If you’re in need of tooth extraction, Meadowvale Family Dentistry has you covered! If it’s an emergency, we can offer a same-day appointment and outfit you with a customized tooth replacement. We’re even open on Saturdays for your convenience. Schedule a time with us through our website or call our Mississauga office at (905) 821-0011.