How long does a tooth extraction take?
Is your dentist recommending a tooth extraction? This article reviews everything you need to know about tooth extractions and how they can benefit your overall health.
Why would you need a tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction is a dental procedure to remove a tooth from the gum socket. There are multiple reasons why you may need a tooth extraction.
1. Crowded Teeth
Having crowded teeth can lead to plaque buildup, gingivitis, and teeth chipping and making it impossible for all the teeth to align properly. If you have crowded teeth, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend a tooth extraction. The tooth extraction will create space in your mouth and allow other teeth to develop properly.
2. Severe Tooth Decay or Infection
Your overall health is connected to your oral health. An infection in your mouth or a tooth with decay can cause bigger issues in your body. Sometimes the best option for an infected or decayed tooth is tooth extraction. The procedure will remove the source of the infection and allow the mouth to start healing. Your dentist may also prescribe an antibiotic after the procedure to help with your recovery.
3. Emergency Tooth Extraction
An emergency tooth extraction is necessary when a dentist cannot save a tooth. An accident, a fall, serious tooth decay, gum infections, or a gum abscess are common reasons for an emergency tooth extraction. If you are in pain and think you may need an emergency tooth extension, call your dentist immediately! Looking for an emergency tooth extraction in Columbus, Ohio? Call Bright Smile Dental at 614-714-3766. Dr. Jerry Cheung at Bright Smile Dental is an award-winning tooth-exaction dentist.
4. Baby Teeth
Retained baby teeth are baby teeth that never fell out. The most common cause of retained baby teeth is the lack of a permanent successor. Typically baby teeth are pushed out by an adult successor, but if one doesn’t exist then the baby tooth will stay in its place. If your baby teeth never fell out, and are causing issues with your adult teeth then pulling a baby tooth might be necessary.
5. Wisdom Teeth Removal
Most people have their wisdom teeth removed between the ages of 18 to 24. Roughly 85% of people need to have their wisdom teeth removed to make way for their other teeth. Skipping a wisdom tooth extraction can cause teeth crowding which will lead to more serious oral health issues. Again, not everyone will have to have their wisdom teeth removed, ask your dentist if a wisdom tooth extraction is best for you.
Want to learn more about wisdom teeth removal? Read our blog post on “Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Headaches?”
How long does a tooth extraction take?
The tooth extraction procedure is probably quicker than you think. A tooth extraction can be performed in 20-40 minutes. The procedure includes an anesthetic to numb the affected area and stitches to seal the wound. If you are getting more than one tooth pulled, the procedure will take more time.
It is recommended to start with an initial dental exam. This way the dentist can examine your personal case and see if it’s an option to save the tooth. Sometimes a tooth extraction is the best option.
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
Yes, typically getting a tooth extracted can hurt. But, your dentist can use an anesthetic to numb the area before performing the procedure to eliminate the pain. After the procedure is finished, dentists will usually recommend an over-the-counter or prescription pain reliever to help you manage the pain. Some patients have said that the proc was almost painless, while others experience more pain. It depends on your actually procedure and your tolerance to pain.
Tooth Extraction Dentist in Columbus, Ohio
Call Bright Smile Dental today to schedule your dental appointment with Dr. Jerry Cheung