There are many reasons your dentist might recommend tooth extractions. Extensive tooth decay, wisdom teeth, crowded teeth, and injury to the tooth are just a few.
Regardless of the need for the extraction, many dental patients are nervous about it. While we can’t say there will be no pain, there are ways to lessen it, and hopefully reduce your overall anxiety. It’s possible your worry may be worse than the procedure itself!
Simple or Surgical Tooth Extractions
The first thing to know is that there is a difference between simple and surgical tooth extractions.
During a simple tooth extraction, the dentist typically provides a local anesthetic. The gums around the tooth are loosened, but not cut. The tooth is then extracted. You can expect mild pain for up to three days after the procedure, with some lingering tenderness for a few more days.
Surgical tooth extractions are required for conditions like impacted wisdom teeth. The dentist needs to cut into the gums to extract the tooth. Lingering discomfort after the procedure varies depending on the scope of the surgery, but can typically last five days and up to two weeks.
In both cases, the dentist may have to close the area with a stitch or two to manage bleeding. These stitches typically dissolve on their own after a few weeks.
Managing Pain During the Procedure
There have been a lot of advancements in how pain is managed during dental procedures, including tooth extractions.
Numbing the Area (local anesthetic)
For a simple extraction, your dentist will likely apply a numbing agent to the area around the tooth, followed by an injection. Most dental patients feel pressure, and possibly some discomfort, but do not feel sharp pain.
Sedation
For surgical procedures, your dentist might recommend sedation to help relax your mind during the procedure. You will be awake, but should feel less anxiety. They may provide you with the option for:
- Light sedation through a pill or nitrous oxide (laughing gas).
- Moderate sedation through an IV solution for deeper relaxation.
General Anesthesia
In rare cases, your dentist may recommend general anesthesia. This puts you fully asleep, and you will have no memory of the procedure. While this seems like the perfect option for those who are concerned about dental surgery, the preparations (like fasting), and longer postoperative recovery make it less likely to be a top recommendation.
If you are sedated or have general anesthesia, you must have someone available to drive you home and care for you after the procedure. It’s a good idea for local anesthetic as well, but not required.
Managing Pain After Tooth Extractions
To manage any pain after tooth extractions, you may choose to take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), or ibuprofen (Advil). Be sure they’re safe for you to use before you take them. For complex oral surgery, they may provide a prescription for pain medication.
It’s important to always use pain medication as directed, whether OTC or prescription.
Additional Recommendations for Recovery
If you continue to feel discomfort after tooth extractions, try one or more of the following:
- Apply an ice pack to your cheek.
- Eat soft food, avoid anything with a crunch.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Elevate your head with a pillow when lying down.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water (not recommended until 24 hours after dental surgery).
When Should You be Concerned?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends you contact your dentist if you:
- Are still in pain a day or more after your surgery.
- Continue bleeding quite a bit 4 hours, or longer, after your surgery.
- Are nauseous, throwing up or have a fever.
- Experience increased swelling 2 days or longer after your surgery.
Worried about Dental Pain? Talk to Dr. Ranny Sidhu at Midland Bay Dental!
Whether you’re worried about pain from tooth extractions, or you are nervous about visiting the dentist in general, talk to our friendly staff at Midland Bay Dental. Our family dental centre provides great care to patients of all ages in the Midland and the surrounding area.
We understand that not everyone loves a trip to the dentist, so we’ll do our best to put you at ease. We’ll explain our procedures in detail (or not if that increases your anxiety!) and talk to you about ways we can help you feel more confident and positive about your treatment. Our care is all about YOU.
At Midland Bay Dental, Dr. Ranny Sidhu and our team of dental professionals are here to help answer all of your questions and alleviate your dental anxiety! If you would like to schedule a consultation, call us at 705-526-6441 or book an appointment on our website.