Not many people have good feelings when they think of tooth extractions. After all, people tend to be attached to their teeth, and the thought of having one removed, even if doing so is medically necessary, is enough to give many significant anxiety. Here’s what you should know about the tooth extraction process, including what your dentist will do to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure and a few tips for not being so nervous in the meantime.
Understand Why Tooth Extraction Can Be Necessary
It may be much easier to feel good about being scheduled for a tooth extraction if you know what removing the troubled tooth may prevent. A common reason for tooth extraction is impacted wisdom teeth, which can cause a person constant pain due to crowding and infections due to sheltering bacteria in the gum tissue. In other cases, a severely decayed tooth may need to be removed to prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth or even to other tissues where they can cause dangerous secondary infections like sepsis or pneumonia.
Understand How Your Dentist Will Keep You Safe and Comfortable
Your dentist will not recommend an extraction before thoroughly examining your mouth to determine that it is the best course of treatment and will not begin the procedure before using anesthetic treatments to ensure that the process is completely painless. While you are feeling the effects of the anesthetic treatment, the staff will keep you monitored to ensure that you are completely safe. Depending on the form of anesthesia, you may be required to have a trusted individual to drive you home after the procedure.
Understand What to Expect During the Recovery Period
You can expect some discomfort as the anesthesia begins to wear off, but it will fade over the coming days. In the meantime, it can best be managed by adhering to the postoperative instructions your dentist gives you and taking any medications as prescribed. You may also be able to reduce your discomfort by keeping your head in a position above your heart to prevent excessive blood pressure from stressing the healing tissues. Ice packs or cold compresses can also be great ways to treat any soreness or swelling.
Your dentist will only recommend tooth extraction as a last resort and only if they have an excellent reason to do so. Following your dentist’s instructions before and after the procedure is the best way to ensure your healing process is as brief and comfortable as possible.
About the Author
Dr. Sujal Patel earned his dental degree at New York University and furthers his training through continuing education courses. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. His office in Dallas, TX, offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry such as tooth extractions. To learn more about why tooth extractions may be necessary, contact his office online or dial (972) 818-5649.