Tooth Extraction
Muscle Shoals, AL
Deciding on when and how to get a tooth extracted can be difficult to process, especially if you are unsure how the procedure will go. When you come to Singing River Dentistry for your dental procedures, however, we keep you informed about every step in the process. Getting a tooth extracted is a commonly performed procedure that may be needed for a variety of reasons.
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What Are Tooth Extractions?
Tooth extraction refers to a professional tooth removal. Tooth extraction is, in most cases, performed due to overcrowding in the mouth, damaged or broken teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, or teeth having deep infections.
Most patients fear tooth extraction due to the accompanying pain. However, the pain is usually due to toothache caused by tooth decay sensitivity and decay. The pain will disappear after successful extraction.
What to Expect When Extracting a Tooth
While there are several reasons why you may be getting a tooth extracted, how the dentist goes about doing it will likely fall under one of two procedural types.
Simple Extraction
The first type is what is called a simple extraction. This procedure type is typically used when the tooth is already fully grown past the gumline and can be manipulated without having to make extensive incisions into the gumline.
Before the procedure begins, the dentist will apply a local anesthetic to ensure you are fully numb on the side of the mouth where the tooth will be extracted.
If you have additional concerns beyond pain management, such as anxiety, be sure to discuss it with the dentist ahead of time so that additional medication can be prescribed.
Once you are numb, the simple extraction process is rather basic. We will utilize specialized tools to hold and manipulate the tooth until it is loose enough to be removed.
You should not be feeling any pain during this process. If you do, let the dentist know right away.
Surgical Extraction
If the tooth that needs to be extracted is fully or partially located underneath the gums, or it has been broken to the point that it cannot be gripped, then a surgical extraction is needed.
Once again, before the procedure begins, different pain management options will be discussed. Regardless of what you choose, do not be shy about letting us know if you are fully numb or not before work begins.
During a surgical tooth extraction, an incision will be made in your gums in order to gain better access to the tooth. After the incision work is complete, the tooth will be maneuvered until it comes loose and can be extracted.
What to Do after Tooth Extraction
 Regardless of what type of extraction procedure was used, we will have a detailed aftercare plan that you must follow.
It will typically include instructions on how to manage any bleeding immediately after the procedure, directions on what painkillers and antibiotics you may need to take, and a special cleaning plan that will be in effect for 24-48 hours.
After getting a tooth extracted, it is important to get rest, avoid smoking or using any type of tobacco products, and only eat soft foods until your dentist says it's OK to switch back to your normal diet.
It is also important to keep a close eye out for any signs of infection around the extraction site. These signs can include discoloration, continued bleeding or other fluid discharge, and persistent pain.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Ensure you avoid spicy foods or hot drinks. Do not spit or rinse within 24 hours after the tooth extraction, as this can cause bleeding. After 24 hours, you can rinse your mouth using warm salt water, especially after meals, to help keep your mouth clean.
You can gently brush your teeth. However, when it is too sensitive, consider dropping a handkerchief into clean, warm salty water and use it to wipe the area. Do not consume any alcohol or smoke. Always hold a clean handkerchief or gauze onto the area and tightly press it if the wound starts bleeding again.
How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Procedure Last?
Without considering any unforeseen complication, the tooth extraction procedure will, in most cases, take 45 minutes or less. The dentist assisting you will help to give you a better time estimate based on your needs.
Is the Tooth Extraction Procedure Painful?
Our friendly dentists will always administer local anesthetic and ensure the extraction site is numb before they embark on tooth extraction exercises. Thanks to the injected anesthetic, you may feel some tugging or pressure, but it will not hurt.
How Long Will it Take to Recover From a Dental Extraction Procedure?
The recovery time for a simple tooth removal procedure takes seven to 10 days. The recovery time can be two weeks for complex cases like a wisdom tooth removal or surgical extraction. Regardless of the procedure’s complexity, you will feel less discomfort during recovery.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Muscle Shoals, AL Dentist Today!
At Singing River Dentistry we know how to make you feel as comfortable as possible when you are going through a tooth extraction procedure. Whether you are dealing with a badly decayed or damaged tooth, planning a scheduled extraction of wisdom teeth, or if you need a tooth extracted to make room for orthodontic work, contact us at 256-712-3186
today to schedule a consultation with our team.
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