The idea of undergoing an emergency tooth extraction can be intimidating, especially if you have never gotten a tooth removed before! There is really nothing to worry about. A tooth extraction can relieve your pain and open the door for improved oral health. And the experience is much easier than most people expect! What exactly does a tooth extraction feel like? This blog post walks you through the procedure.
Numbing Your Tooth
Before doing anything else, your dental team will numb the tooth and the area around it. You can expect to feel a slight pinch as the anesthetic is injected. Then, you might notice a feeling of fullness or pressure as the medication starts to take effect.
Any discomfort should pass very quickly; most people find the numbing process to be quite tolerable. Your dental team may even apply a topical anesthetic before the injection to make things even easier for you.
Removing the Tooth
Local anesthetic prevents you from feeling pain, so you do not have to worry about that during your procedure. Instead, you may feel some pressure or tugging sensations as your team works. They will lift the tooth with a tool called an elevator, and then use forceps to grip it and carefully remove it. Clean gauze will be used to control any bleeding.
Recovery
Local numbing agents typically last a few hours. As yours wears off, you may notice swelling and discomfort where your dental team was working. Over-the-counter pain relievers, a soft diet, and rest can minimize discomfort. Your care team will provide instructions to help you during your post-op period.
Most patients recover fairly quickly after a tooth extraction. Within a week or so, you may feel completely normal! However, keep in mind that some tooth extractions are more complex than others. If your procedure involves making incisions in the gums or other extra steps, it might take up to two weeks for you to bounce back.
Any severe or prolonged pain after an extraction is a big red flag, and you should contact your dentist right away if you experience it or any other concerning symptoms.
Getting a tooth extracted is easier than you might expect! If your dentist recommends this procedure for you, you have no reason to be fearful.
Meet the Practice
At New Haven Dental Group, we strive to perform tooth extractions are gently as possible; our goal is to make the treatment experience easy for our patients! In some cases, we can even provide sedation to help those who are particularly nervous or sensitive. To learn more about us or to request an appointment, contact our Hamden location at 203-587-7327.