How long does tooth extraction take?

Tooth extractions usually take about 20 to 40 minutes to complete. However, some factors influence how long your extraction will take, such as how many teeth you’re having removed, their location, and the complexity of the removal.

How long after a tooth extraction can I smoke?

After an extraction, it’s best to wait as long as possible to resume smoking as it can increase your risk of dry socket and infections. If you can wait 72 hours to smoke, your risk of complications will be reduced.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

The amount of time it takes can vary depending on your situation, but full recovery normally takes about seven to ten days. Most patients return to their daily lives within a few days. It’s best to take a few days to rest after your extraction so your body can focus its energy on healing.

What do I do if the site of my extraction is infected?

If your extraction site is infected, contact our office at (618) 236-0501 so we can help you. Our dentist will see you right away. We can prescribe antibiotics and provide additional forms of treatment.

Should I feel pain in the days after my tooth extraction?

You may feel some pain as your mouth heals, but it’s manageable with pain medication and other remedies. But if you experience significant pain or bleeding, there may be a complication with your extraction site, and you should call our office at Corner Stone Dental right away.

Tooth Extractions | Dentist in Swansea, IL

Comfortable Tooth Extractions at Corner Stone Dental

Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure aimed at improving oral health and alleviating discomfort. Whether due to severe decay, gum disease, or overcrowding, extractions are essential in preserving the overall wellness of your smile. At Corner Stone Dental, our Swansea, IL dentist, Dr. Randall Wilson, understands that tooth extractions can be daunting, which is why we offer gentle extractions performed with precision and care.

Our experienced team ensures your comfort throughout the procedure, providing a reassuring environment for your dental needs To learn more about tooth extractions, contact our Swansea dental office by calling (618) 236-0501.

What is a Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. It’s typically performed by a dentist or oral surgeon under local or general anesthesia.

Types of Tooth Extractions

There are two main types of tooth extractions, including:

Simple Extraction: Removal of a visible tooth that’s intact above the gum line.
Surgical Extraction: Removal of a tooth that’s not easily accessible, such as impacted wisdom teeth.

Reasons for a Tooth Extraction

Although tooth extraction isn’t the most thrilling dental procedure, it may be the only option for patients struggling with:

Severe Decay: When decay has progressed beyond repair, extraction may be necessary to prevent infection.
Gum Disease: Advanced periodontal disease can weaken the tooth’s support, necessitating extraction.
Impaction: When a tooth won’t erupt properly, it may become impacted and require extraction.
Crowding: Extraction may be needed to create space for orthodontic treatment.
Trauma: Teeth damaged by injury may need to be extracted if they cannot be salvaged.

Benefits of Tooth Extraction

There are various benefits of tooth extractions, including:

Alleviation of Pain: Removing an infected or damaged tooth can provide immediate relief from discomfort.
Preventing Spread of Infection: Extraction can prevent the spread of infection to neighboring teeth and gums.
Improved Oral Health: Removing problematic teeth can contribute to overall oral health and hygiene.
Orthodontic Alignment: Extraction can facilitate orthodontic treatment by creating space for proper tooth alignment.

Tooth Extraction Process

Assessment

Before proceeding with a tooth extraction, Dr. Wilson conducts a thorough assessment of your dental health. This includes a visual examination and may involve X-rays to evaluate the tooth’s position and surrounding structures. Through this assessment, he determines whether extraction is necessary and plans the procedure accordingly.

Anesthesia

Once the assessment is complete, Dr. Wilson administers anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. The type of anesthesia used depends on various factors, including the complexity of the extraction and your medical history. Local anesthesia numbs the extraction site, while general anesthesia may be ideal for more complex extractions or patients with dental anxiety.

Extraction

With the area anesthetized, the dentist begins the extraction process. For a simple extraction, the dentist uses specialized instruments called elevators and forceps to gently loosen the tooth from its socket. The tooth is then carefully removed in one piece. In cases where the tooth is impacted or not easily accessible, such as with wisdom teeth, a surgical extraction may be necessary. This involves making an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and may require sectioning the tooth into smaller pieces for removal.

Closure (if needed)

After the tooth has been extracted, your Swansea dentist may need to close the extraction site. This typically involves placing stitches to help the gums heal properly. The type of stitches used and whether they are absorbable or need removal will depend on the specific situation and the dentist’s preference.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Following the proper aftercare steps are essential for healing:

Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications may be recommended to manage discomfort.
Oral Hygiene: Gentle brushing and rinsing with salt water can aid in keeping the extraction site clean.
Diet Modifications: Avoiding hard, crunchy, or hot foods can promote healing and prevent irritation.
Rest: Rest and avoiding strenuous activities can facilitate the healing process.
Follow-up: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments at our Swansea office to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

The recovery time from a tooth extraction can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the extraction, your overall health, and how well you follow post-operative instructions. In general, most people can expect the initial healing process to take about 1-2 weeks. During this time, you may experience some swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding, which are normal parts of the healing process.

It’s generally recommended to arrange for someone to drive you home after a tooth extraction, especially if you’ve had general anesthesia or if you feel groggy or lightheaded after the procedure. The effects of anesthesia can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely, so having someone else drive you home is a safer option.

While tooth extractions are generally safe procedures, there are some risks involved. These risks may include infection, excessive bleeding, damage to surrounding teeth or structures, dry socket (a condition where the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges prematurely), and nerve damage. However, serious complications are rare, especially when the procedure is performed by a skilled and experienced dentist or oral surgeon following proper protocols.

Smoking after a tooth extraction is strongly discouraged, as it can significantly impede the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Smoking slows down blood flow to the gums, which is essential for proper healing. It also introduces harmful chemicals into the mouth, which can irritate the extraction site and increase the likelihood of infection. Ideally, it’s best to refrain from smoking for at least 24 to 48 hours after the extraction, if not longer, to give your body the best chance to heal.

Experience Gentle Tooth Extractions at Corner Stone Dental

Tooth extractions are vital in maintaining oral health and alleviating pain and discomfort. At Corner Stone Dental, our experienced team provides safe and effective tooth extraction, tailored to meet each patient’s needs. If you’re experiencing dental issues that may require extraction, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation at our Swansea, IL, dental office by calling (618) 236-0501. Your oral health is our priority.

Gentle Tooth Extraction in Swansea, IL