What is the immediate feeling that comes up when a dentist mentions tooth extraction? Like many other patients, you are likely to become nervous and anxious. Everyone associates the thought of a tooth being pulled with pain. Tooth extraction is usually done when a tooth appears to have decayed and can’t be saved. Other circumstances such as a badly damaged tooth from trauma, damage of pulp, and an abscessed tooth may also make your dentist to recommend extraction.
Regardless of the reason of extraction, your dentist will ensure the extraction process is done smoothly and in comfort. The extraction process begins with the affected area being numbed with an anesthetic to ensure you have a painless experience.
However, it is important to understand what will happen after the extraction. Your dentist will give you post-extraction instructions which include the beverages and food to avoid and how you should pack the wound. It is crucial that you follow all the instructions and guidelines you’ll be given because your particular healing process might not be similar to someone else.
Note that you might experience a little bleeding, slight discomfort, and swelling. A combination of ice and acetaminophen can be helpful when it comes to swelling and discomfort. With that said, typical healing varies from patient to patient although it takes between one and two weeks. Relaxation and rest are key to the healing process. You may return to non-strenuous activities like school class or office work as such shouldn’t result in any problems. After a tooth extraction, go home and rest for the remainder of the day.
You should visit your dentist immediately you experience the following signs after a tooth extraction.
- Chest pains
- Shortness of breath and coughing
- Vomiting or nausea
- Signs of infection
- Discharge from the affected area
- Swelling and uncommon redness.