Under ideal circumstances, patients are able to retain their natural teeth for a lifetime. However, there are cases in which a tooth extraction in Branford becomes necessary. If your dentist has told you that you will need to have a tooth taken out, it is only natural if you feel a little apprehensive about your upcoming appointment. It may put your mind at ease if you know what to expect during your procedure. That is why we have put together this brief guide that explains how a tooth extraction usually takes place.
Making You Comfortable
Before your dentist begins the extraction, they will numb the part of your mouth where they will be working. It is common to feel a mild pinching sensation when the anesthetic is being injected. A degree of discomfort is normal at this stage, but you should not experience any severe pain. If you feel some anxiety about your treatment, you may be able to request sedation.
Removing the Tooth
After your anesthesia has taken effect, your dentist will begin the process of taking the tooth out.
If you are undergoing a simple extraction, your dentist will use forceps to grasp the tooth and gently rock it back and forth in order to break the ligaments that bind it to the surrounding tissue. The anesthesia will prevent you from feeling pain, but it will not prevent you from feeling pressure. Hence, you may feel a pulling sensation at this stage.
Surgical extractions are more complicated and might require that your dentist makes incisions in the gums or breaks a tooth into pieces. Similar to a simple extraction, you can expect to feel no pain, but pulling and tugging sensations are normal.
Finishing the Procedure
After the main portion of the tooth is out, your dentist may clean out its socket to remove any loose bone or tooth fragments inside it. Then, if you had a surgical extraction, you may need some self-dissolving sutures. Gauze may be placed in your mouth to control any bleeding. In most cases, patients must bite firmly on the gauze for about an hour in order to place adequate pressure on the extraction site. Your anesthesia should still be working at this point, so you will not feel any pain.
After Your Treatment
Swelling and soreness are to be expected after a tooth extraction. Your dentist will give you detailed directions to help you cope with any discomfort. For example, you may be instructed to take pain medication at specific intervals, avoid hard and crunchy foods, and use ice to keep swelling to a minimum. The soft tissue at the extraction site should heal fairly quickly; most people feel normal within a week or so. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, contact your dentist. They will be happy to assist you.
Your upcoming tooth extraction may feel strange, but it should not cause any extreme discomfort — and it will ultimately prove beneficial for your oral health.
Meet the Author
Dr. Dean Cloutier is the general dentist at New Haven Dental Group in Branford. He and our team provide gentle tooth extractions as one of our restorative services. To learn more about how we can help you protect your oral health, contact us at 203-437-9112.