How Painful is Tooth Surgery?
If you’re having tooth surgery in Rochester, you may be concerned about the recovery and pain of the procedure. After all, the phrase “like pulling a tooth” doesn’t refer to something easy, comfortable, or enjoyable.
Fortunately, tooth surgery can be quick and virtually painless, thanks to the advances in modern technology and minimally invasive techniques. Learn more about dental surgical procedures and what you can expect.
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
Dental surgery can include many different procedures, but tooth extraction is limited to simple or surgical extraction.1
With a simple extraction, a tooth that is infected, decayed, or damaged is removed. This is done under a local anesthetic, which numbs the surrounding area to minimize discomfort. The oral surgeon then uses an “elevator” tool to loosen the tooth in the gum, and then removes the tooth. You may feel a little pressure during this procedure, but the local anesthetic will prevent any pain.
A surgical extraction is a bit more involved than a simple extraction. This may be done under local or general anesthetic, depending on your unique situation. Surgical extractions are often used for wisdom tooth removal or teeth that are difficult to access in a comfortable way for the patient.
Both simple extractions and surgical extractions may require stitches, but not always.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction
The goal is always to save teeth if possible. However, with severe infection, decay, or trauma, it may be necessary to extract a tooth to preserve oral health and the health of the remaining teeth.
When tooth decay or damage extends to the tooth’s pulp, a root canal treatment may be recommended as a treatment. If that isn’t successful or the damage is too significant, the tooth may need to be extracted to prevent the spread of infection.
Wisdom teeth are also typically removed, which may be due to complications like impaction when the tooth becomes partially or fully trapped beneath the gums or infection.2 Wisdom teeth may also require removal if they’re causing problems with the rest of your teeth, such as crowding or shifting.
When needed, tooth extractions protect your oral health and prevent any further pain or discomfort. Damaged or infected teeth can become serious quickly, possibly affecting the surrounding teeth and underlying bone.
Does Tooth Surgery Hurt?
No matter what type of surgery you have for a tooth, you shouldn’t feel any pain. Your mouth will be numbed with a local anesthetic, which feels like a little pinch during the injection. Your oral surgeon will “test” the area to ensure that you are fully numb and don’t have any sensation.
After the procedure, you may experience minor soreness or discomfort when the anesthetic wears off, which can be managed using over-the-counter medication. Your oral surgeon will go over proper aftercare to ensure you minimize discomfort and avoid complications.
Tooth Surgery in Rochester at Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester
Getting a tooth extracted may sound scary, but it’s a routine and straightforward procedure that’s virtually pain-free. At Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester, our specialists ensure you’re comfortable and relaxed during our surgical procedures with local or general anesthetic and post-surgical pain management. Contact us today to schedule your consultation! 585.685.2005
Sources:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/pulling-a-tooth-tooth-extraction
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/wisdom-tooth-extraction/about/pac-20395268
