Tooth extraction is one of the dental operations that many people dread. However, there are situations where tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage and improve your overall oral health. This article will discuss what to expect and how to prepare for a tooth extraction.

Everything About Tooth Extraction

Visit a website like https://greenvillefamilydentistrysc.com/ or read more below to learn about the common questions and answers about tooth extraction:

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction?

The area around the tooth that needs removal is usually numbed with local anesthesia before the tooth extraction. Your dentist will then use specialized tools to loosen the tooth and gently rock it back and forth until it is free from the socket.

The tooth may occasionally need to be fragmented into tiny pieces for easy removal. After the extraction, your dentist will place gauze in the tooth socket to stop bleeding and encourage clotting. They will give you over-the-counter pain meds and after-care instructions you can do at home for faster recovery before you leave their clinic.

When Is Tooth Extraction Needed?

Tooth extraction is required when it is badly decaying or damaged and cannot be repaired with a filling, crown, or other therapeutic procedures. In some situations, tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage and improve oral health. These situations include severe tooth decay or damage, advanced gum disease, impacted wisdom teeth, overcrowding of teeth, and preparation for orthodontic treatment.

Does Tooth Extraction Hurt?

One of the most common questions about tooth extraction is whether it will hurt. Fortunately, with modern anesthetics and sedation options, most people do not experience any pain during the procedure. You may feel pressure or discomfort as the tooth is extracted, but it should not be painful.

Can You Be Sedated During Tooth Extraction?

If you have dental fear, you may want to consider being sedated during a tooth extraction procedure. Your dentist may recommend different types of sedation, such as inhalation (nitrous oxide or laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, intravenous (IV) sedation, or general anesthesia. Discuss your options with a professional to determine what type of sedation would be best for you.

How to Prepare for Tooth Extraction?

To prepare for tooth extraction, inform your dentist about any medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. If you have a medical condition requiring antibiotics before dental procedures, inform your dentist. You should also arrange for transportation to and from the dental office on the day of the procedure, especially if you opt for sedation dentistry in Greenville, SC.

How Much Does Tooth Extraction Cost?

The tooth extraction cost can vary depending on several factors, such as the procedure’s complexity, your dentist and location, and insurance coverage. According to the 2020 survey of dental fees by the American Dental Association, here’s an average cost for each extraction involving an impacted tooth:

• Erupted tooth requiring bone removal: $301
• Impacted tooth (soft tissue): $347
• Impacted tooth (partially bony): $414
• Impacted tooth (completely bony): $510

Discussing the procedure’s cost with your dentist and understanding your insurance coverage is essential. While other dental insurance plans could require you to pay a percentage out of pocket, some might cover all tooth extraction costs. Ensure to ask your dentist for a more accurate estimate during your consultation.

What Is Impacted Tooth Removal?

A tooth that does not fully erupt is said to be impacted, and this sometimes causes pain and suffering. The biggest concern about this condition is that it can cause infection and adjacent damage to teeth. An impacted tooth can occur in any part of the mouth, but it is most familiar with wisdom teeth. 

While it’s unnecessary, your dentist may recommend removal if it’s causing you problems. Impacted tooth removal is a more complex procedure than a simple tooth extraction. It involves making an incision in the gum to access the impacted tooth and remove it.

Conclusion

The removal of a tooth may be required to stop additional harm and enhance oral health. While a tooth extraction can be intimidating, the procedure is usually quick and painless, and most people recover quickly. You can have a smooth and successful outcome by understanding what to expect and how to prepare before your appointment.