Tooth extractions are a common procedure that dentists perform to help patients with damaged teeth. If you need to have your tooth extracted, it’s expected that you will have questions about how tooth extractions are performed and what you can expect during the process.

Your dentist in Deerwood and Aitkin, MN, can help. At River Oaks Dental, we perform tooth extractions for patients and have years of experience helping patients through this procedure. We’re happy to answer your questions.

1. Do Tooth Extractions Hurt?

To perform the tooth extraction, your dentist will numb the area around the tooth so you won’t be able to feel the extraction. Your dentist may also offer you sedation dentistry during the procedure. Sedation doesn’t numb the area, but it can leave you feeling calm, euphoric, and indifferent to discomfort.

You may feel discomfort after the procedure is over, and the numbness has worn off. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain medications to help. Keep your dentist informed and follow dentist’s recommendations to help manage the discomfort throughout the procedure.

2. How Long Does Recovery Take After a Tooth Extraction?

How long it takes to recover after a tooth extraction depends on the type of extraction that your dentist performed. Surgical extractions can take longer than standard extractions. Most people feel better in a few days, but some people take a week or more to be fully recovered. Stay in contact with your dentist throughout your recovery if you have questions or concerns.

3. Who Needs a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary for people with damaged, injured, or infected teeth. Dentists try to save teeth whenever possible, but sometimes extractions are best.

4. How Do You Recover During a Tooth Extraction?

Your dentist will recommend a variety of things after your tooth extraction including:

• Keep the site clean (your dentist will provide specific instructions)
• Avoid strenuous activity
• Eat soft foods
• Take over-the-counter medications as recommended

Follow all dentist instructions as provided to you after your extraction occurs.

If you need a tooth extraction in Deerwood and Aitkin, MN, get help from an experienced professional. Call River Oaks Dental today to make an appointment.