What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

The fear of dentists has been going on for a very long time. However, when you go to the dentist for tooth extraction, the anxiety and stress reach an entirely new level. 

The best thing you can do to calm your fears is to be as informed as possible about what is going to happen. Ask your dentist as many questions you can think of and let them know if you are scared and uneasy. They will be sure to make you as comfortable as possible. 

A tooth extraction is sometimes necessary. It can remove a decaying tooth and stop the decay from spreading to other healthy teeth. 

Steps of a tooth extraction

You can ask your dentist to walk you through exactly what is going to happen and talk to you throughout the procedure. There are basic steps that should take place:

Your dentist will first make sure the area in, on, and around the tooth to be extracted is completely numb. You should not feel any pain at all. It is completely normal to feel pressure but if you feel any pain, let your dentist know immediately. 

The dentist will use the tools to lift and loosen your tooth.

After the tooth is lifted and ready, your dentist will pull it from its socket and remove the tooth from your mouth. 

A stitch will be placed over the opening in the gum to be sure it is closed to prevent infection.

The area will begin to heal. 

The entire process is relatively quick, and you will be surprised at how easy it was. You will realize your fears were for nothing, and you will leave the office calm and relieved. 

Follow-up care after tooth extraction

Your dentist will provide instructions on how to properly care for your mouth after the procedure. Be sure to follow them. 

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• Painkillers may be prescribed, or your dentist may recommend over-the-counter painkillers.
• Try to remember to bite down on the gauze pad over the area in your mouth to control the bleeding.
• You can put a cold compress on the area to help with any pain.
• Limit your activity for the first day after the extraction.
• Don’t rinse your mouth hard for at least 24 hours; your dentist most likely recommends rinsing with warm salt water but try not to rinse rough.
• Do not smoke. Smoking will slow down the healing process.
• You can brush your teeth normally but do not brush the extraction site.

The healing process is rather quick after extraction, and you will be back to normal within days. 

A tooth extraction may sound like a scary procedure, but if you keep yourself well informed and talk over your fears with your dentist, you will be better prepared. Knowledge is power. 

Do your research, and you will not be fearful of any dental procedures. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.ohiocosmeticdentists.com or call Ohio Cosmetic Dentists at (614) 503-5240 for an appointment in our Columbus office.

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