What is meant by a tooth extraction?
During a tooth extraction in Brandon, FL, a dentist the anchored tooth from the root and from the patient's mouth. Having a tooth removed or pulled is necessary when the teeth are crowded, trauma has happened to the tooth/teeth, decay is present, infections have taken over the tooth, gum disease is evidenced, and for wisdom teeth that could cause problems. Extractions generally apply only to adult teeth as “baby teeth” fall out on their own.
How do dentists pull a tooth out?
A Brandon, FL dentist can perform a simple extraction or a surgical extraction. A simple extraction is used when the tooth is visible and easily accessible by the dentist. The procedure is started by the dentist who will numb the area with an anesthetic. He/she then will then need to open the patient's mouth by using what is called an elevator which is followed by the dentist using an extraction forcep to remove the tooth. Once the tooth has been safely removed, the dentist will clean out the tooth socket, remove bone and tissue, compress the socket to reshape the jawbone, manage any bleeding, and the close the open space.
If a surgical extraction is necessary, it means that the tooth being pulled is in a more critical condition or area. This could be caused by a broken tooth, has too long of roots, is impacted, or hasn't even entered in the mouth for some reason. Sometimes an oral surgeon will perform surgical extractions but an experienced general dentist should have no problem, and even often times more experience, pulling the tooth out.
What are the risks of getting a tooth pulled out?
If you get a tooth pulled out, you can develop dry sockets after but this only occurs in less than 5% of all extractions. A dry socket can occur if a blood clot does not form or if it breaks too early. The tooth would then be exposed to food and air. There is an increased risk of getting a dry socket if you use a straw or smoke within 48 hours after you get the tooth pulled out. Additionally, if you get a tooth extracted, damage to the surrounding area can occur or even an infection,. This is very unlikely but if you have concerns, please talk to your dentist about them.
How long does it take for a tooth extraction to heal?
The answer to this, of course, depends on what type of extraction you have. Both, a simple and surgical extraction, will take about 24 hours to stop bleeding. Minor bleeding could occur even after multiple days depending on how severe the procedure was. After a week, the bleeding should be completely done, swelling should be down significantly, and pain should be minor. Tissue can take almost 4 weeks to heal and bone may even take up to 6 months. You shouldn't have noticed the lack of tissue or bones healing though. You should be able to eat and drink relatively quickly after your extraction.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Have questions about getting a tooth pulled? Here are answers to common questions about tooth extractions at our Brandon, FL practice.
No, you shouldn't feel pain during the extraction. We use local anesthesia to completely numb the area before the procedure. You'll feel pressure as the tooth is removed, but not pain. Sedation options are available for anxious patients.
A simple extraction typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, including numbing time. Surgical extractions for impacted or broken teeth may take longer depending on complexity. We'll give you a time estimate based on your specific situation.
Extraction costs vary based on whether you need a simple or surgical extraction and the tooth's location. We'll provide a cost estimate during your consultation and help you understand your insurance coverage. Payment plans are available.
Stick to soft foods for the first few days—yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soup work well. Avoid hot foods, straws, and anything crunchy or chewy that could disturb the extraction site. Gradually return to normal foods as healing progresses.
Avoid smoking, using straws, spitting forcefully, and vigorous rinsing for at least 48 to 72 hours after extraction. These actions can dislodge the blood clot protecting the socket. Follow all post-operative instructions carefully to minimize your risk.
Symptoms include severe pain starting 2 to 4 days after extraction, visible bone in the socket, bad breath, and an unpleasant taste. Dry socket occurs in less than 5% of extractions. Contact our office immediately if you experience these symptoms.
You can brush your teeth the same day, but avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, gently clean around the area. Rinse gently with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery to keep the site clean.
In most cases, yes—except for wisdom teeth. Leaving a gap can cause surrounding teeth to shift, affect your bite, and lead to bone loss. We'll discuss replacement options like dental implants or bridges based on your needs.
Most patients return to work or normal activities within one to two days after a simple extraction. Surgical extractions may require a few extra days of rest. Plan to take it easy the day of your procedure.
If you receive only local anesthesia, you can drive yourself home. If you choose sedation dentistry for your extraction, you'll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours afterward.
