Possible Complications
Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor
will go over some problems that could happen, such as:
- Excess bleeding
- Problems from anesthesia
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Dry socket—when a blood clot does not form in the tooth socket
Things that may raise the risk of problems are:
- Smoking
- Chronic health problems, such as diabetes
Reasons for Procedure
Tooth extraction may be done to remove a tooth that:
- Is too badly damaged or decayed to be saved by a root canal
- Has an infected nerve
- Is affecting normal tooth growth
- Is loose due to gum disease
- Has a loss of supporting bone, gums, or tissue
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
Your dentist will meet with you to talk about:
- Anesthesia options
- Any allergies you may have
- Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to
stop taking them before the procedure
- Fasting before the procedure, such as avoiding food or drink after midnight the
night before
- Arranging a ride to and from the procedure
Anesthesia
The doctor may give:
- A sedative—you will feel relaxed
- Local anesthesia—the area will be numbed
- General anesthesia—you will be asleep
Description of the Procedure
If the tooth is covered by gum tissue, a cut will be made to
access the tooth. Forceps will be used to grasp the tooth. They will be used to rock
it back and forth to loosen it. The tooth will be pulled. A blood clot will form in
the empty socket. A gauze pad will be packed into the socket. In some people,
stitches may be used to close the gum edges.
Immediately After Procedure
You will be asked to bite firmly but gently on the gauze pad.
This will promote clotting.
How Long Will It Take?
20 to 40 minutes
Will It Hurt?
Anesthesia will prevent pain during the procedure. Pain and
swelling are common in the first few days. Medicine and home care can help.
Post-procedure Care
At the Care Center
Right after the procedure, the dentist may give you pain
medicine.
At Home
It will take about two weeks to fully heal. Physical
activity will be limited during this time. People who smoke will need to avoid
smoking to promote proper healing. You may need to delay your return to work.
Problems to Look Out For
Call the dentist if you are not getting better or you have:
- Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, or increased pain at the site
- Increased bleeding or other leakage from the site
- Severe pain or pain that you cannot control with medicine
- Bad breath or a bad odor coming from your mouth
- Loss of the blood clot from the tooth socket
- New or worsening symptoms
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right
away.
