What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is a dental procedure during which your tooth is completely removed from its socket. Sometimes, people refer to this as “pulling" a tooth.

A tooth extraction may be necessary for many reasons, including severe damage or decay. One of the most common dental procedures, a tooth extraction can eliminate bacteria and improve your overall oral health

When is tooth extraction recommended?

Healthcare providers prefer to save natural teeth whenever possible. But sometimes, other restorative methods — such as dental fillings or dental crowns — aren’t enough. If your tooth has been badly damaged past the point of repair, then removal may be necessary. Your dentist may recommend tooth extraction if you have:

Severe tooth decay(carries).

A fractured tooth.

An impacted tooth.

Crowded teeth.

Severe gum disease.

A very loosened tooth.

What happens before a tooth extraction?

Your dentist will assess your affected tooth and surrounding gums. Your dentist will also take dental X-ray to check bone levels and determine the extent of damage. Be sure to tell your dentist about any medications, vitamins or supplements you’re taking. Once all information is gathered, treatment and sedation options will be discussed with you in detail.

What happens during a tooth extraction?

First, local anesthesia is given to numb your affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Using specialized dental instruments, your dentist will gently loosen your tooth and carefully lift it from its socket. Sometimes, your dentist might need to make incisions in your gums to access your tooth — especially if your tooth is badly decayed or has broken off at the gum line. Once your tooth is removed, the socket is cleaned and disinfected. In some cases, your dentist may also place a dental bone graft, which helps prevent bone loss in your jaw. Finally, stitches may be placed to help promote healing.

What happens after a tooth extraction?

When the procedure is complete, your dentist will place a piece of gauze over the extraction site and ask you to close down with firm, steady pressure. This helps slow bleeding so a blood clot can form. (Clotting is a normal aspect of recovery. It promotes healing and reduces the risk of dry sockets.) You’ll take the gauze out once the bleeding has slowed enough. You may continue to have light bleeding throughout the first 24 hours.

Risks / Benefits

What are the advantages of pulling a tooth?

Tooth extraction offers a number of benefits. Most importantly, it reduces harmful bacteria that can damage your teeth and gums. Left untreated, a decayed or damaged tooth gets worse with time, at times causing an infection or abscess in the mouth or other surrounding tissues. Removing your affected tooth gives you the best chance for optimal oral health. Additionally, a tooth extraction can help ease dental pain almost immediately — especially if your tooth was severely broken or infected.

What are the side effects of removing a tooth?

A tooth extraction would be considered as the very last option especially for permanent teeth, considering the fact that when removed, a permanent tooth doesn’t grow again. A dental filling or a root canal treatment can be a better option in majority of the cases.

Normal side effects following tooth extraction include bleeding, swelling and discomfort. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to successfully manage your healing.

Recovery and Outlook

How long does it take to recover from a 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 2 to 72 hours, it usually takes the jawbone several weeks to heal completely. Therefore, if you’re planning on replacing the tooth with a dental implant, you’ll probably need to wait a few months to allow for full recovery.

Tooth extraction aftercare

After your extraction, your dentist will give you a detailed list of post-surgical instructions. Here are some general guidelines for a speedy recovery:

Keep the extraction site clean. Gently rinse the area with an antimicrobial mouthwash or warm salty water two to three times a day. Avoid brushing directly over your extraction site for the first 2 days. Brush and floss all other areas as usual.

Take all medications as directed. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and pain killers. It’s important to take all of these medications exactly as directed. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol, acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

Avoid strenuous activity for at least two days. An elevated heart rate can cause increased post-operative bleeding and discomfort. Skip the gym for the first 48 to 72 hours. Ask your dentist when it’s safe to resume normal routines.

What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

You may have to wait for a few hours before eating until the mouth feels normal. You can eat a simple soft meal for a couple of days, while the wound healing take phase. You’ll also want to avoid drinking through straws, as this can dislodge blood clots and cause dry sockets.

When can I go back to work or school?

Most people are able to return to work or school within a day or two. If you have a job that requires a lot of lifting or physical labor, you may need to take a few more days off work.

When To Call the Doctor

When should I see my healthcare provider?

Any time you develop a tooth ache or dental pain, it’s important to schedule a visit with your dentist. They can help determine the cause and design a personalized treatment plan.

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, teeth replacement options like dental implants, bridges or partial dentures can restore appearance, function and overall oral health.