What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

Are you planning on having a tooth extraction soon and want to learn more? Goochland Dentistry put together everything that you need to know about the procedure so you can feel confident when the day comes.

There are many questions that our patients often have. We want you to feel comfortable with your tooth extraction plans and being informed is the best way to do that. Here are the questions we hear the most when it comes to tooth extraction:

How Long Does it Take to Recover?

When you have a tooth extracted, you can expect it to take about 1 to 2 weeks for you to heal completely. This is because new tissue will need to grow over the gap where your tooth used to be.

It is important to keep in mind that having a tooth removed might cause your other teeth to shift since there is now a gap they want to fill. This can change your bite and maybe cause other problems for your oral health.

These issues might lead to you needing braces or other orthodontic treatment.

How Long After the Procedure Until I can Eat?

You will want to be careful for the next 24 hours after your tooth extraction. During this period be sure to only eat soft foods. Be careful as you start going back to your regular eating habits. Do this slowly, as you feel comfortable chewing again.

We recommend that you only eat soft foods for a couple of days. Cold food like pudding, ice cream, yogurt, or Jello can be soothing for your sensitive gums as well.

You should wait to eat for a few hours after your procedure. This is because you will want the local anesthetic that was used on you to wear off completely. Eating while still numb could lead to you biting your tongue or cheek, and maybe cause problems to your healing gap.

Finally, be sure to avoid using a straw. Straws can cause complications when your mouth is healing, so you will not want to use them. Hot drinks should also be avoided since they can cause swelling in your mouth.

Can I Drive After the Tooth Extraction?

That depends on what was used on you during the surgery. You can drive right away if a local anesthetic was used. However, if a sedative was used on you, you will need to wait 1 to 2 days after the procedure.

When making plans for the extraction, your dentist will let you know what to expect on the day of the procedure. You can then figure out what you want to do after the extraction. If you know you will be sedated, be sure that you have a ride set up with a trusted friend or family member for after the procedure.

Can I go to Work After a Tooth Extraction?

You will probably want to take a day off from work after your procedure. This gives you extra time to rest and lets your body start the healing process. If your job is not physically intensive, then you might consider going in.

Many patients feel tired for a day or two after the procedure. This is because your body is spending more energy on healing the surgery site. If you can take off a day of work, then you should give yourself a chance to rest.

How Do I Know if I Need a Tooth Extraction?

If your tooth is impacted, then you will likely need to have it extracted. You may also need to have a tooth removed if there is not enough room in your mouth for your teeth to be aligned correctly. Taking out a tooth allows for the rest to move back into their proper places.

Another common reason why many people need tooth extraction is that the tooth is severely damaged. If your dentist can not make repairs, then removal might be necessary. That way, you can avoid infection and problems caused by tooth decay.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a qualified practice to handle your tooth extraction procedure, be sure to contact us. Our team is very skilled and experienced in these kinds of procedures, so you can trust us to take care of you.

Overall, tooth extraction is a simple procedure that is painless for you. The aftercare is what you will want to concern yourself with – be sure not to use a straw, do not have hot drinks, and take care of the surgery site properly. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.