Tooth extraction can evoke a range of emotions, from discomfort and worry to fear. In this article, we will discuss the tooth extraction process, the pain that may be experienced, the reasons for extraction, and a particularly important aspect—the removal of wisdom teeth.
Does tooth extraction hurt?
Tooth extraction usually does not cause pain because local anesthesia is used to ensure a painless procedure. After the treatment, mild discomfort may occur, which is typically managed with painkillers recommended by the dentist. It is important to note that as dental professionals, we do everything possible to ensure the patient's comfort during tooth extraction. Performing the extraction according to professional standards is crucial, as proper extraction preserves the surrounding bone. Maintaining the bone allows for the placement of a dental implant to replace the extracted tooth.
Which teeth need to be extracted:
Caries-affected tooth - if a tooth has an advanced cavity and even the root cannot be saved, extraction may be the only option.
Root infection - severe infections of the tooth root may require extraction to prevent the infection from spreading.
Wisdom tooth problems - impacted wisdom teeth causing pain, infections, or shifting of other teeth are often extracted.
Space issues - if there is not enough room for a new tooth to grow, the dentist may recommend extraction to prevent complications.
Periodontitis - when teeth become very loose due to advanced periodontal disease.
Tooth fracture - in cases of vertical tooth fracture, extraction is the only option.
After the extraction, the wound is treated—stitches are placed if necessary—and the patient receives clear instructions on post-operative care to ensure smooth healing without complications.
This careful approach not only ensures a painless procedure but also promotes faster recovery and long-term better oral health outcomes.
Alveotomy is a surgical tooth extraction performed when standard extraction is not possible due to the tooth’s position, root shape, or surrounding structures.
Unlike a simple extraction, which is quick and does not require cutting, alveotomy is a more complex procedure.
It involves opening the gum tissue and removing part of the bone surrounding the tooth to facilitate its removal.
This procedure is most often needed for impacted (unerupted) teeth, teeth with irregular roots, or more complicated dental conditions.
Alveotomy is performed under local anesthesia and is completely painless for the patient.
After the procedure, all patients receive written post-extraction care instructions.
Alveotomy is a dental procedure that safely and effectively resolves complicated cases.
The cost of tooth extraction can vary depending on several factors. For example, whether a single-rooted or multi-rooted tooth is being extracted, as this affects the complexity of the procedure.
The main factors influencing the price include the complexity of the extraction, the tooth’s location, the type of anesthesia used, and the patient’s overall oral health condition.
Routine extraction of simple teeth is usually less expensive compared to more complex procedures such as wisdom tooth removal or surgical extraction of teeth positioned deep within the jaw.
There are different types of tooth extractions that determine the approach and difficulty of the procedure.
Routine extraction typically involves fully erupted and easily accessible teeth.
Surgical extraction, on the other hand, covers more complicated cases like removing impacted teeth that are not fully erupted or are located beneath the gum line.
Before tooth extraction, it is important to inform your dentist about all medications you are taking, including vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs.
Special attention should be given if you are taking medications such as bisphosphonates, as extraction should be done before starting therapy due to the risk of jaw osteonecrosis.
Long-term use of bisphosphonates can be associated with side effects, including the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw, especially after dental procedures. Therefore, it is crucial to inform your dentist if you are taking bisphosphonates before any dental treatment.
Also, inform your dentist about any existing health conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or heart diseases, as these may affect the extraction procedure.
In certain cases, taking antibiotics before the procedure may be necessary to reduce the risk of infection, especially if a lengthy operation is planned, there is a current infection, or you have a weakened immune system.
On the day of extraction, avoid smoking before and after the procedure. If you feel cold, nauseous, or have vomited the night before, be sure to inform your dentist so the treatment can be adjusted or postponed for your safety.
Healing of the gum tissue after tooth extraction is a natural and gradual process that begins immediately after the procedure.
First, a blood clot forms to protect the wound and enable tissue regeneration. In the following days, the gum slowly covers the wound, and a new epithelial surface starts closing the opening.
At Centrodent, we use resorbable surgical sutures, which means there is no need for suture removal. The stitches dissolve naturally within the tissue, making recovery easier for patients.
Complete healing of the gum after tooth extraction usually takes between two to four weeks, depending on the complexity of the procedure, overall health, and proper oral hygiene.
It is important that the wound is not disturbed, especially during the first days, to ensure smooth healing without complications.
