Your Guide to Tooth Extraction: What to Expect Before, During, and After

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While it may sound daunting, tooth extraction is often necessary to maintain oral health and prevent further complications. 

Reasons Why Tooth Extraction May Be Necessary

There are several reasons why a tooth extraction may be necessary. One of the most common reasons is severe tooth decay or damage that cannot be repaired by other dental treatments such as fillings or crowns.

In some cases, a tooth may also need to be extracted if it poses a threat to the surrounding teeth or if it is causing overcrowding in the mouth. Additionally, impacted wisdom teeth, which are third molars that do not have enough space to erupt properly, often require extraction to prevent pain, infection, and other complications.

Preparing for a Tooth Extraction

Before a tooth extraction, your surgeon will perform a thorough examination of your mouth and take X-rays to assess the condition of the tooth and surrounding structures. They will also review your medical history to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. It is important to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as well as any medical conditions or allergies you have. Based on their evaluation, your doctor will discuss the treatment plan with you, including the type of anesthesia that will be used during the extraction.

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction Procedure

On the day of the tooth extraction, your surgeon will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure that you do not feel any pain during the procedure. If you are having multiple teeth extracted or if the tooth is impacted, your surgeon may recommend general anesthesia or conscious sedation to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. 

Once the area is numb, your surgeon will carefully loosen the tooth using a dental instrument called an elevator. They will then use forceps to gently remove the tooth from its socket. In some cases, a tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. The entire process is usually quick and relatively painless.

Aftercare and Recovery Tips Following a Tooth Extraction

After a tooth extraction, it is important to follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. Immediately after the procedure, your surgeon will provide you with gauze pads to bite down on to control bleeding. It is normal to experience some swelling and discomfort in the first few days following the extraction. Applying an ice pack to the affected area for 15 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling. You should also avoid drinking through a straw, smoking, and eating hard or sticky foods for at least 24 hours after the extraction. It is crucial to keep the extraction site clean by gently rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater. Your dentist may also prescribe pain medication or antibiotics if necessary.

Schedule Your Consultation with Wilshire Oral Surgery and Implant Center 

By understanding what to expect before, during, and after a tooth extraction, you can prepare yourself both physically and mentally for the procedure. Consult with your surgeon, follow their aftercare instructions, and reach out to them if you have any concerns or questions during the recovery process. Taking proper care of your mouth after a tooth extraction will help ensure a smooth and successful healing process.

If you have any questions or concerns about tooth extraction, schedule a consultation with our professionals at Wilshire Oral Surgery and Implant Center in our Los Angeles, California, office. Please call (310) 954-9449 to book an appointment today.