Even if you need an emergency tooth extraction, you may fear going through with it. Such a procedure can sound risky to those who’ve never had one before. In fact, you may find yourself asking, “What does a tooth extraction feel like?” There’s no real reason to worry, though; your Glastonbury dentist can settle your fears right now. Simply keep reading to learn how tooth extractions work, what they feel like, and how to ease their aches afterward.
The Steps of the Tooth Extraction Process
To understand how a tooth extraction feels, you’ll first need to learn what it involves. That context will help you grasp why treatment features certain sensations.
A tooth extraction usually consists of four steps, including:
- Exposure of the Tooth: A dentist will ensure they can see your tooth before they remove it. For a simple extraction, they’ll look at your tooth’s crown. This sight will require a gum incision, though, if you need a surgical extraction.
- A Smooth Extraction: Once it’s revealed, your dentist will extract your tooth with dental forceps and elevators. They may remove bone fragments or spurts as well.
- Closure of the Space: Your dentist will clean and stitch the treatment site after the removal. That way, they can keep your gums from getting infected.
- Control of Bleeding: To wrap up your care, the dentist will place gauze over the extraction site and have you bite down on it. This step controls post-treatment bleeding.
What Does Extraction Itself Feel Like?
While tooth extraction can be invasive, it’s a smooth and pain-free procedure. A dentist always takes steps to ensure it doesn’t hurt; the most you’ll sense from it is some pressure.
Indeed, dentists will numb your mouth before the extraction even starts. They’ll simply apply an anesthetic that keeps your teeth, gums, and other mouth tissue from feeling pain. Once that’s done, you’ll only sense the “bite” of the needle from the anesthesia injection. The rest of the treatment will just involve feelings of pressure for you.
How to Ease Post-Extraction Aches
With all that said, you’ll feel a bit sore after the treatment is done. (The anesthesia will wear off eventually.) However, you can manage any post-extraction aches by doing the following:
- Only eat soft foods the day after treatment, especially soup, yogurt, etc. You can switch back to solid meals after the extraction site heals.
- To dull post-extraction soreness, take prescribed or store-bought pain medication as needed.
- Avoid the extraction site when brushing or flossing for a few days post-treatment.
- Starting the day after treatment, rinse your mouth with warm salt water once daily for a few days.
You don’t need to worry about what a tooth extraction feels like. You’ll be fine by knowing how treatment goes and how to manage afterward!
About the Practice
Glastonbury Dental Associates is based in Glastonbury, CT. Led by six amazing and talented dentists, our practice is top-tier and offers comprehensive dentistry. You can trust us for preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative smile services, as well as emergency oral care. That means we’re ready and able to help your whole family get thriving grins! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (860)-633-3671.