The idea of tooth extraction can make anyone feel nervous. After all, it’s never fun to lose one of your pearly whites. However, the procedure is often necessary to protect your oral health. By understanding what to expect, you can begin to feel more at ease with the idea. The good news is, thanks to modern dentistry, extractions are quicker and more comfortable than ever. But what does it feel like? Keep reading to learn about the sensations before, during, and after an extraction procedure.
The First Sensation: Numbing the Area
Your dentist will begin by numbing the area around your tooth with a local anesthetic. This injection might feel like a slight pinch or sting for a moment. However, once the anesthetic takes effect, the area will feel completely numb.
This is great because it will immediately relieve any pain that might be present in the offending tooth. Not only that, but you won’t feel any discomfort for the rest of the procedure.
The Next Sensation: Pressure, Not Pain
When your dentist starts the extraction, you shouldn’t feel pain, but you will feel pressure and movement. This is because the numbing agent blocks pain signals to your brain but doesn’t stop pressure sensations.
So, you might feel your dentist’s instruments touching your teeth and a rocking sensation as the tooth is loosened. You may also hear some cracking or popping as your tooth comes free, but this is completely normal. There’s nothing here to worry about!
The Last Sensations: After the Procedure
Once your tooth is free, the numbing effect of the anesthetic will continue for a few hours. During this time, you may feel some swelling or a dull ache as your mouth adjusts. It’s best to avoid eating during this period because you might accidentally bite your lips, cheeks, or tongue and not know it.
As the anesthetic wears off, you might experience some mild soreness or discomfort around the extraction site. The good news is this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
A tooth extraction might sound intimidating, but with modern techniques and proper aftercare, it’s a relatively simple and pain-free procedure. Now that you know what to expect, you can feel more confident and prepared for the treatment ahead!
About the Author
Dr. J.D. Robison is a compassionate and talented dentist who has helped countless patients find relief from toothaches and beyond. He is highly educated, having a breadth of study from Purdue University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Detroit Mercy. With advanced technology and techniques, Dr. Robinson can help with even the worst dental pain. Call (734) 453-6320 to schedule an appointment at Robison Dental Group or visit our website to learn more about our treatments.