“Will it hurt?” is one of the most asked questions about tooth extractions. Since the idea of removing a tooth sounds painful, it’s not surprising to see why either! Fortunately, you won’t feel anything more than some slight pressure from our Concord team working because we will thoroughly numb your mouth first. We’ll also share how you can keep soreness and discomfort at bay once you return home and the numbing agent wears off, like taking OTC pain medication (as directed on the label) and using a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time.
Our patients are often curious if they have to replace their tooth, especially if the new gap between their teeth doesn’t show when they smile. The short answer is “That depends.” If the tooth was removed due to overcrowding, then putting a dental bridge or implant in its place defeats the purpose. If, on the other hand, the tooth was extracted due to considerable decay or some other form of damage, then it needs to be replaced. Otherwise, there’s a risk of other problems, like dental drift.
At the end of your appointment, we will provide you with verbal and written instructions so you know how to navigate the next few days as smoothly and painlessly as possible. That includes not using a straw, sticking to soft foods, taking OTC pain medication as directed, changing the gauze as needed, and keeping your head elevated while you sleep. Around the 3-day mark, you should feel much better.
Note: If your symptoms seem to be getting worse, you have a fever, or there are any other warning signs of an infection present, call us ASAP.
The weekend before your tooth extraction, it’s a good idea to dedicate some time to stocking up on what you need. That includes soft foods, OTC pain medication, and cold compresses. You should also arrange for a trusted adult to drive you to and from your appointment, especially if oral conscious sedation or IV sedation is a part of your treatment plan. Finally, check in with your dental team to see if there is anything else they recommend, like sticking to water the morning of the procedure.
Wisdom tooth surgery refers to the removal of the third set of molars. Tooth extractions, on the other hand, involve removing any tooth that is decayed, damaged, or causing overcrowding. In other words, wisdom tooth surgery does fall under the “tooth extraction” umbrella, but the two terms cannot be used interchangeably.
Cigars, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and other tobacco products have the potential to delay healing, which is why it’s so important that you refrain from using them following your tooth extraction. In fact, patients are encouraged to quit for a minimum of five days (although quitting entirely is more ideal).
