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Extraction FAQ
Is a tooth extraction painful?
No. Your dentist will use local anesthesia and/or sedation to numb the area completely, so you will feel no pain during the extraction. You will feel pressure during the procedure
Are there alternatives to tooth extractions?
Your dentist will evaluate the tooth and will give you options to restore the tooth if it is still repairable. If the tooth is repairable, your dentist may suggest a root canal, crown, or periodontal therapy before option for an extraction.
What is the difference between a simple or surgical extraction?
Simple extractions are done on visible teeth that only require mild to moderate pressure to extract. A surgical extraction is more involved and may involve small incisions and the use of a drill to split the tooth or remove bone to loosen the tooth.
What should I avoid doing in the first 24 hours after an extraction?
Do not rinse vigorously, spit, smoke, or drink through a straw. These actions can dislodge the blood clot that forms after the extraction and can cause a painful condition called a dry socket.
What can I eat after an extraction?
Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, apple sauce, eggs, and soup for the first few days. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or sharp foods.
How long does healing take?
Initial gum healing takes 1 to 2 weeks, while complete bone healing at the site takes 3 to 6 months. Most post-operative discomfort subsides within 2 to 5 days.
What are the warning signs of a complication?
Contact your dentist if you are experience severe worsening pain, a fever, pus discharge, or uncontrollable bleeding.