People are usually pretty attached to their teeth, but it’s sometimes necessary to remove a troubled tooth to preserve the health of the rest of the smile. There are a lot of common misconceptions about how tooth extractions are performed and why they may be necessary, but this guide can help you get a better idea of how the process works. Here’s a quick look at a few popular falsehoods about tooth extraction as well as the corresponding truths about the procedure.
The First Falsehood: Tooth Extractions Hurt
Many people assume that the process of removing a tooth must hurt, but his is not the case. Modern dentists are always sure to administer an appropriate anesthetic to ensure their patients’ comfort before extracting teeth, and many providers also offer nitrous oxide sedation for those who need a little extra help staying calm and still throughout the procedure.
The Second Falsehood: Extraction Is Always the Best Option for Damaged or Infected Teeth
While tooth extraction is sometimes the best way to address dental damage or infection, it is only recommended as a last resort. One of the top priorities of dental medicine is the preservation of the patient’s natural dental structure, and dentists will be sure to consider saving compromised teeth with restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, root canals, and gum disease therapy. If these options cannot be effective, it may be necessary to remove the tooth.
The Third Falsehood: Recovering after Tooth Extraction Is a Long and Miserable Process
Recovering after extraction usually takes about a week or two. While the patient may experience noticeable discomfort for several days after the procedure, they should find that it gets better with each passing day. Your dentist will be sure to provide you with a prescription for pain medication as well as detailed aftercare instructions so you can know exactly how to stay comfortable and avoid complications while recovering. However, contact your oral healthcare provider if you experience worsening pain or signs of infection like swelling, redness, or a foul taste in your mouth.
Tooth extraction may be the most effective way to keep your smile functional. If your dentist recommends removing a troubled tooth, you can rest assured it is the best method for your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Sienna Palmer earned her dental doctorate at the Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California and is a proud member of the Academy of General Dentistry. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as extraction services. If you are worried about your oral health, contact her office in Mission Viejo online or dial (949) 365-0951.