Nobody walks into a dental office hoping to hear the word “extraction.” We understand that. The idea of having a tooth pulled sounds intimidating, maybe even a little scary. But sometimes a tooth extraction is the kindest thing we can do for your overall health. And when that’s the case, we do everything in our power to make it as comfortable and straightforward as possible.
Let us walk you through what actually happens.
Why We Sometimes Recommend Extraction
We always try to save a natural tooth first. That’s our goal. But there are situations where saving it isn’t realistic or wouldn’t be in your best interest.
- Severe decay:Â When a cavity is so deep that there isn’t enough healthy tooth structure left to support a crown, extraction may be the only option.
- Advanced gum disease: If periodontal disease has destroyed the bone around a tooth, that tooth becomes loose. No amount of cleaning can grow that bone back. Removing the tooth protects the bone around neighboring teeth.
- Fractures that go below the gumline: A tooth can fracture in ways that we can’t repair. If the damage extends too far down the root, there’s simply nothing left to hold a crown.
- Overcrowding:Â Sometimes we need to remove a tooth to make room for orthodontic treatment or to prevent other problems down the road.
What the Procedure Actually Feels Like
You won’t feel pain during the extraction. We numb the area completely, just like we would for a filling. If you need more numbing, we give it. You should feel pressure and movement, but not sharp pain. There are two types of extractions.
- Simple extraction: This is for teeth that are fully visible in your mouth. We loosen the tooth with a special instrument called an elevator, then remove it with forceps. The whole thing usually takes just a few minutes.
- Surgical extraction:Â This is for teeth that haven’t fully come through the gum or have broken off at the gumline. We make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth. Sometimes we need to remove the tooth in sections. This takes a little longer, but you’re still numb the whole time.
The First Few Days After
Recovery from an extraction is usually straightforward. You’ll bite down on gauze for about 30 minutes after we finish. That helps a blood clot form in the socket. That clot is essential for healing, so we’ll give you specific instructions about protecting it.
For the first 24 hours, don’t spit, use a straw, or smoke. Those actions can dislodge the clot and lead to a painful condition called dry socket. Stick to soft foods and warm liquids.
Over-the-counter pain relievers usually handle any discomfort. Most patients feel back to normal within a few days.
What Happens Next Is Just as Important
Once a tooth is gone, you need a plan for that space. Leaving a gap affects more than just your smile. The teeth on either side will drift into the empty space. The tooth above or below will start to move. Your bite can change. Chewing becomes less efficient.
We almost always recommend replacing an extracted tooth. Options include dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures. We’ll talk through those choices with you before the extraction, so you’re not left wondering what comes next.
We Don’t Take This Lightly
Removing a tooth is never our first choice. But when it’s the right choice, we want you to feel informed and as comfortable as possible. You’ll know exactly what’s happening, why, and what comes after.
Our team at AH Smiles serves patients from Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Long Grove, Deerfield, and Northbrook. If you’ve been told a tooth might need to come out, give us a call. We’ll give you a second opinion and walk you through every option.