Do you believe that you may soon need to get a tooth removed? No doubt, the prospect can be somewhat unnerving, particularly if you have some anxiety when it comes to undergoing dental procedures. There is no need to worry. In fact, many patients are surprised to find out just how easy the treatment is. What does a tooth extraction feel like? This blog post explains what you can expect.
Patient Comfort Is Important
The majority of dentists are compassionate people; they never want to cause pain. Therefore, one of the first things your dental team will do is use local anesthetic to numb your mouth. You may feel a pinching sensation as the numbing agent is injected, but the discomfort should only last for a few moments.
Also, if your dentist offers sedation, do not be shy about asking for it. It can dull your body’s pain response and help you stay relaxed throughout your treatment. It can be an excellent option for patients who struggle with anxiety as well as for those who are not easily numbed by local anesthesia.
There Are Different Types of Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions can be divided into two major categories. During a simple extraction, your dentist uses something called an elevator to gently lift the tooth out of its socket. Then, they grip the tooth with forceps and rock it back and forth to break the ligaments that are binding it to the surrounding bone. You may experience some pressure as the tooth is removed, but you should not notice any real pain.
A surgical extraction may require additional steps. Your dentist might have to create incisions in your gums or even break a tooth into pieces. You may hear some strange noises and feel pressure as your dental team works. Again, though, you should not expect any significant pain.
Bleeding and Soreness Are Normal
Once your tooth is out of your mouth, your dentist will clean out its socket and place sutures if needed. You may experience some intermittent bleeding after your appointment, but that should be easy to control with gauze.
As your local anesthesia and sedation wear off, you can expect some soreness at your extraction site. You can manage it by taking pain relievers, getting plenty of rest, and making sure you stick to soft foods for at least a few days. Most people find that posttreatment pain dissipates within a few days to a week after a tooth extraction.
It is understandable if you feel a bit of trepidation about your upcoming tooth extraction. However, you can be confident that your dental team will do all they can to create a positive and comfortable experience for you.
Meet the Practice
New Haven Dental Group is proud to provide the Hamden community with a broad range of oral health services, including gentle extractions. If you have questions about what to expect during any of the procedures we offer, we are ready to speak with you. Contact our office at 203-587-7327.