Tooth extraction may be necessary for your oral health. Preserving your natural teeth for as long as possible is often the goal, but things like gum disease, overcrowding, tooth decay, or a trauma can all result in the need for extraction. Many people fear getting a tooth extracted. However, modern dentistry has advanced to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. Below you will find more information on why tooth extraction is not scary.
Why Tooth Extraction Is Not Scary
Tooth Extraction Procedure
Tooth extraction can help improve your oral health by reducing your risk for further damage or decay. Understanding what to expect is important when it comes to tooth extraction. This can help minimize your fears as there won’t be any unknowns that will surprise you on the day of your extraction.
Simple Extraction
Depending on your unique dental situation, there are two types of extractions. A simple extraction involves numbing the area around your tooth, in addition to local anesthetic. This will help ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Your surgeon will loosen and remove the tooth with dental forceps. This does not involve any incisions into your gums.
Surgical Extraction
A surgical extraction is necessary when your tooth hasn’t completely grown in. For example, an impacted wisdom tooth often requires surgical extraction. The procedure remains slightly more complex than a simple extraction. It requires a tiny incision to remove your tooth. Local anesthetic and/or sedation can ensure you stay comfortable during the procedure.
Pain Management Options
Tooth extractions in Encino are highly safe, smooth, and fairly fast (depending on how many teeth are going to be removed). The dentist will administer local anesthetic and numb the area around your tooth during a simple extraction. However, a surgical extraction may also include sedation for maximum comfort during the procedure. IV sedation allows you to stay semi-conscious, but you will also stay very relaxed. These are effective in ensuring that you do not feel anything during the procedure.
Once the local anesthetic and sedation wear off, you may experience some pain and soreness. This is normal and should go away within a few days post-extraction. Over-the-counter pain medication is generally effective in addressing these symptoms. However, you may also be prescribed medication for pain and antibiotics to prevent infection. Follow your dentist’s post-recovery instructions for a fast recovery. If your pain is intolerable or gets progressively worse after your tooth extraction, contact your dentist in Encino right away.
Patients With Dental Anxiety
Some patients have a fear of the dentist, but it does not stop them from attending their dental appointments or special procedures. However, others have dental anxiety. This can be debilitating and cause you to avoid going to the dentist altogether. If you struggle with dental anxiety, there are options available to help you get through the appointment with ease.
There exist number of sedation options that your surgeon can administer before the procedure begins. Oral sedation, IV sedation, or even nitrous oxide can help you stay comfortable through the procedure. Talk with your dentist before your appointment to see what options we have available. Your oral health proves an integral part of your overall health. So it stays important to find effective ways to manage your anxiety during your dental appointments.
Tooth Extractions in Encino
If you are concerned you need your tooth extracted or just need to schedule your regular dental checkup, contact the team at Encino Family Dental. They are experienced in both restorative and preventative dentistry. They also offer cosmetic dentistry services to help you achieve your desired smile. Contact their office today to schedule an appointment!
