A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure where a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. Although it may sound scary, it is a straightforward procedure that is often done in dental clinics such as URBN Dental. A tooth extraction may be necessary due to various reasons such as overcrowding, tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma to the tooth. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what to expect during a tooth extraction, the different types of surgical tooth extractions done, and how to care for your mouth after the procedure.

Types of Tooth Extractions

There are two types of tooth extractions, simple and surgical. Simple extractions are performed on visible teeth that have erupted through the gum line. These extractions can be done using local anesthesia, and the dentist will loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator before pulling it out with forceps. The procedure is quick and generally pain-free.

Surgical extractions, on the other hand, are more complicated and are performed on teeth that are not easily visible or have not erupted through the gum line. These teeth may be impacted or broken, and the procedure involves making a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. Surgical extractions are done under general anesthesia or conscious sedation to ensure that the patient remains relaxed throughout the procedure.

What to Expect During the Tooth Extraction Procedure

Before the procedure, the dentist will take an x-ray of your mouth to assess the tooth’s position and condition. They will also ask you about any medical conditions you have and medications you are taking. Based on the x-ray, the dentist will decide whether you need a simple or surgical tooth extraction surgery and what type of anesthesia to use.

During the procedure, the dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure that you don’t feel any pain. If you’re undergoing a surgical extraction, you’ll also receive general anesthesia or conscious sedation to keep you comfortable. The dentist will then make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and remove it from the socket. If necessary, they may also remove some bone around the tooth.

After the tooth is removed, the dentist will place a gauze pad over the socket to help stop the bleeding. They will also give you instructions on how to care for your mouth and what to expect during the healing process. In most cases, the entire procedure takes less than an hour.

Caring for Your Mouth After a Tooth Extraction

After the procedure, you’ll need to take some steps to care for your mouth to ensure a speedy and complete healing process. Here are some tips:

  • Bite down on the gauze pad for about 30-45 minutes after the procedure to help stop the bleeding.
  • Apply ice packs to the outside of your mouth for 10-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and discomfort.
  • Avoid rinsing or spitting for at least 24 hours after the extraction, as this can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket, which can be painful and delay healing.
  • Eat soft, cool foods and avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods for a few days after the extraction.
  • Brush your teeth gently but avoid the extraction site.
  • Take any pain medication or antibiotics as prescribed by your walk-in dentist.
  • Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled to monitor your healing process.

What About Wisdom Teeth Extractions?

Wisdom teeth extractions are a common type of tooth extraction, and they are often done during the late teenage years or early twenties. Wisdom teeth are the third molars that typically grow in the back of the mouth and can cause problems due to overcrowding or impaction. If your dentist recommends wisdom tooth extracted or teeth extraction, they will use either a simple or surgical extraction procedure based on the position of the tooth.

What to Expect During a Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Before the procedure, your dentist will take an x-ray of your mouth to determine the position of the tooth and whether it needs to be extracted. If the tooth is visible and has erupted through the gum line, a simple extraction may be performed. If the tooth is impacted or not visible, a surgical extraction will be necessary.

During the procedure, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure that you don’t feel any pain. They may also provide conscious sedation or general anesthesia to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure. If the tooth is impacted, your dentist will need to make an incision in the gum tissue and remove some bone to access the tooth.

After the tooth is removed, your dentist will place a gauze pad over the socket and other teeth to help stop the bleeding. You’ll need to bite down on the gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after the procedure to ensure that the blood clot forms properly. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your mouth after the procedure, including what to eat and how to clean your mouth.

Tooth Extraction Cost

The cost of a tooth extraction can vary depending on several factors, including the type of extraction, the location of the tooth, and the complexity of the procedure. Simple extractions are generally less expensive than surgical extractions. The total cost of the tooth removal procedure may also depend on whether you have dental insurance or not. At URBN Dental, we offer affordable tooth extraction services, and we accept most insurance plans. We also offer payment options for patients without insurance to ensure that they can receive the care they need.

Pain During Tooth Extraction

Many people fear that a tooth extraction will be painful. However, with the use of local anesthesia, most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure. If you’re undergoing a surgical extraction, your dentist may provide you with pain medication to help manage any discomfort after the procedure. You may experience some soreness and swelling for a few days after the procedure, but this can be managed with ice packs and pain medication.

Potential Complications

Although tooth extractions are generally safe, there is a risk of further complications. Dry socket is a common complication that occurs after teeth extracted, when the blood clot in the socket is dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves. This can be painful and delay the healing process. To avoid dry socket, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions and avoid spitting, rinsing, or using straws for the first 24 hours after the procedure.

In rare cases, tooth extractions can lead to nerve damage, infections, or excessive bleeding. Your dentist will provide you with information on what to look out for after the procedure and what steps to take if you experience any complications.

Visit URBN Dental for Tooth Extraction Houston

A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that is often necessary to maintain your oral health. Whether you’re undergoing a simple or surgical dental extraction, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions to ensure a speedy and complete healing process. At URBN Dental, we offer affordable and pain-free tooth extraction services in Houston, TX. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, contact us today to schedule an appointment.