What exactly is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is an outpatient procedure performed by a dentist. In some cases pulling teeth (removing a tooth completely from its spot in the jaw bone), may be necessary to preserve or improve your dental health.

How painful is a tooth extraction?

Is Getting A Tooth Pulled Painful? While you shouldn’t experience pain, you may feel a slight pressure as the tooth is being loosened and extracted. You might also hear a snapping or creaking sound. This is perfectly normal, as the tooth and its socket are both hard tissues.

How long does a tooth extraction take?

If you’re just having one tooth extracted, the entire process can be completed in 20-40 minutes. However, if you’re having multiple teeth extracted, expect to spend a little more time in our office. Each additional tooth will take another 3-15 minutes of appointment time, depending on its location.

Why is tooth extraction bad?

When an opposing tooth begins to move and grow into the space left by the extracted teeth, food can get caught in the gap and cause plaque to become trapped around it. This build-up of plaque can cause tooth decay and can be quite difficult to treat.

Which is better root canal or extraction?

A root canal has a better success rate than a tooth extraction because there are little to no future complications associated with the procedure. Root canals are performed by dentists to clean and restore an infected tooth. There is no need to extract or remove the tooth.

How soon can I eat after tooth extraction?

Avoid chewing from the extraction site for about two weeks following the procedure to disrupt and delay the healing process. While you can begin to eat your usual foods after three days, avoid very hot, spicy, acidic, sticky, and crunchy foods until your gum and jawbone is fully healed.

Can you eat after tooth extraction?

For at least 24 hours after your tooth extraction, you should consume only soft foods and liquids. You can ease into a more normal diet when you feel comfortable doing so. Try to stick with easy-to-chew foods for a few days. Initially, choose cool foods like yogurt, pudding, Jell-O, and ice cream.