A dental extraction is performed in preparation for orthodontic treatment or when a tooth is too damaged to be saved with a root canal, periodontal treatment, or a crown. Missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants, crowns or bridges, or removable dentures.
A tooth extraction, put simply, is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. Once the area has been numbed, the dentist will remove the tooth, and if necessary, place sutures to close the gums. Your dentist may prescribe or recommend over-the-counter medications to help control any post-operative pain or swelling.
Main objective of a tooth extraction
Though the healing time will depend on the type of surgery and the location of the teeth, you should expect to recover in 7 to 14 days.
A blood clot will form in the extracted gum. The blood clot helps with healing, and it is important to protect it. If the blood clot dislodges or breaks, it can expose the gum causing dry socket. Not only will it affect the healing process, but the socket can also cause bad breath and pain.
It is normal to feel slight discomfort after the anesthesia wears off. Furthermore, you will have swelling and residual bleeding 24 hours after the extraction.
Aftercare will affect your healing time, so follow the dentist’s instructions. Here are a few tips:
Typically, the first step in tooth extraction procedures is to numb the area with a local anesthetic. During the removal process, there is little to no sensation felt. Some patients do mention feeling pressure as the tooth is removed.