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If you’ve been told you need a tooth extraction, it’s totally normal to feel nervous. Maybe a badly decayed tooth has gone past the point of repair, or you have an infection that’s causing serious pain. Even if you’ve never had a cavity in your life, an accident or injury could break a tooth and make it necessary to take it out. No matter the reason, you probably have questions about what to expect with a tooth extraction.
Our team at Dental Specialty Associates of Arizona is always here to help you understand your needs and available options so you can care for your smile with confidence. Let’s take a look at what to expect if you need a tooth extraction in Phoenix or Gilbert, and how we can make the process as comfortable as possible.
What Are the Different Types of Tooth Extraction?
Every smile is different, so every tooth extraction is a little different, too. Our team will look at where the tooth is, how damaged it is, and how easy it is to reach. That’s how we figure out whether you need a simple or surgical tooth extraction. We offer both types of tooth extractions in Phoenix and Gilbert, and both can help get you out of pain fast.
What Is a Simple Tooth Extraction?
A simple extraction is pretty straightforward. If your tooth has fully come in and isn’t broken below the gums, it can usually be removed easily. We’ll completely numb the area around the tooth so you won’t feel any pain. Then we’ll use a special tool to gently loosen the tooth and pull it out. You’ll feel some pressure, but it’s usually quick and easy.
We may also be able to prepare the site for tooth replacements like dental implants in the same appointment. That may involve placing bone grafting material in the socket to keep it healthy so you can decide about how you want to replace the tooth later. In some cases, we may be able to place an implant post directly after the extraction to streamline your process and get your smile back to its full strength as quickly as possible.
What Is a Surgical Tooth Extraction?
A surgical extraction is a little more involved. This is usually needed if your tooth hasn’t come in all the way (like an impacted wisdom tooth), if the tooth roots have very unusual shapes that make a simple extraction impossible, or if it’s broken below the gumline. If the tooth is covered by the gums or bone, we may need to make a small incision or remove some bone around the tooth to get it out. This may sound scary, but don’t worry. With the right sedation and numbing, you’ll be comfortable the whole time.
Key Differences Between Simple and Surgical Extractions
Here’s the quick version:
- Simple extractions are used for teeth that are easy to see and grab.
- Surgical extractions are used for teeth that are hidden, broken, or stuck.
- Surgical procedures take more time and usually need a longer healing period.
- Both types are done with numbing, and sedation is available for either one.
We’ll explain which type of tooth extraction you need and why before your procedure.
How Painful Is a Tooth Extraction?
This is one of the biggest worries people have, but here’s the truth: you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. We’ll make sure the area is fully numb. If you’re feeling anxious or nervous, we also offer sedation dentistry to help you relax.
After the numbness wears off, you may feel sore for a few days. It’s important to remember that the goal of a tooth extraction is to relieve your pain, not cause it!
Recovering from a Tooth Extraction
Healing is usually quick, but you’ll need to take it easy at first. We’ll give you detailed instructions for healing after a tooth extraction, but here are a few tips:
- Rest for the first 24 hours
- Don’t smoke or use a straw until our team says it’s okay
- Use a cold pack to reduce swelling
- Eat soft foods like yogurt, soup, or mashed potatoes
- Brush gently and avoid the area for the first day
- Follow any provided post-op instructions as closely as possible
The day of your extraction, we may provide some clean gauze to bite on to minimize bleeding. If the site continues to bleed, you can gently bite on a damp tea bag (black tea works best, although green tea can also work) for up to 30 minutes. Tannins in the tea can help to stop bleeding and improve healing.
Which Day Is Most Painful After a Tooth Extraction?
Day 3 is often when swelling and soreness peak. This is totally normal. This happens because your body kicks its healing into high-gear after about two to three days, so inflammation (an important part of the healing process) is at its peak. This is also when your blood clot stabilizes, which can cause some soreness.
What Is Dry Socket?
The blood clot is critical to comfortable healing, especially after wisdom tooth extractions. If the blood clot is dislodged (for example, by using a straw too soon or swishing too aggressively), it causes a condition called dry socket, which most frequently happens around days 3-5.
If your tooth extraction site is still very uncomfortable after about a week, call us so that we can determine if you have dry socket and provide treatment to keep you comfortable and ensure your healing goes smoothly.
When to Call a Dentist After a Tooth Extraction
Our team will be with you every step of the way after your tooth extraction in Phoenix or Gilbert. Call us right away if:
- You have a fever
- Bleeding doesn’t stop after 24 hours
- Swelling or pain gets worse instead of better
- You see pus or have a bad taste in your mouth
These could be signs of infection, and we’re here to help.
We’re Here to Help Put an End to Tooth Pain
Tooth extractions might sound scary, but they’re often the best way to stop pain, prevent infection, and keep your smile healthy. Whether you need a quick and simple removal or a more involved wisdom tooth extraction, our team is here for you. We also offer emergency dental care and sedation options to make your visit as comfortable as possible, as well as comprehensive tooth replacement options to fill the gap and restore your complete smile.
Still have questions? Give us a call! We’re happy to help you feel better, faster.
