Tooth Extraction

It depends on the complexity of your case. However, most people feel back to normal in just a few days. While you’ll be able to return to routine activities within 48 to 72 hours, it usually takes the jawbone several weeks to heal completely.

It’s never fun hearing that you need to have a tooth pulled. But sometimes, a tooth extraction is the best way to eliminate infection and get you back on track to a healthy smile and life. If your dentist recommends an extraction, be sure to discuss replacement options with them, too. Dental restorations like dental implants, dental bridges or dentures can restore appearance, function and overall oral health.

There are two types of extractions you might have:

A simple extraction is the removal of a tooth that is visible in your mouth. It’s common for a general dentist to perform simple extractions. During a simple extraction, your dentist will numb the tooth and gum tissue and loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator before removing it with dental forceps.

A surgical extraction is a more complex procedure used for a tooth that may have broken off at the gum line or has not come through yet. Oral surgeons usually perform such surgical extractions. However, general dentists can perform them as well. During a surgical extraction, the dentist will make a small incision (cut) into your gum and remove the underlying tooth.

The most important thing to keep up with after a tooth extraction, is keeping the area clean and preventing infection. Immediately following the procedure, your dentist might ask you to bite down gently on a piece of dry, sterile gauze, which you should keep in place for up to 30 to 45 minutes to limit bleeding, while clotting takes place. Your dentist will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, but for 24 hours following your extraction, you shouldn’t smoke, rinse your mouth vigorously, or clean the teeth next to the extraction site.

You can expect a certain amount of pain and discomfort following an extraction. In some cases, your dentist will recommend a pain killer or prescribe one for you. It might help to apply an ice pack to your cheek to reduce swelling. You should also limit strenuous activity, as well as avoid hot liquids and not drink through a straw. Under normal circumstances, discomfort should lessen within three days to two weeks. However, if you experience prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or fever, call your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.

For a successful and uncomplicated extraction, it’s always best to follow your dentist’s recommendations carefully before and after the procedure. Tooth extraction makes room for something better and can help keep your smile healthy and confident.