Establishing Expectations: What Do Tooth Extractions Feel Like?

Usually, your dentist does everything they can to preserve your natural teeth. For instance, they provide basic preventive services to avoid common problems. They also offer various methods of addressing different issues, like repairing cavities with fillings or alleviating toothaches with root canals.

However, if you have a pearly white that is too decayed or damaged to be mended, your provider might have no recourse but to extract and replace it. If you’re scared that your procedure will hurt, continue reading to learn more about what to expect so you can set your concerns aside!

What Happens During Tooth Extractions?

It’s normal to feel anxious if you have an upcoming extraction, and understanding more about what happens during your appointment can help soothe your frayed nerves.

First, your dentist will loosen your tooth using a dental elevator, which is a special instrument designed to wedge between the enamel and the surrounding bone to apply controlled pressure to help pry it out. Next, for simple extractions, the troublesome tooth is grasped with forceps and wiggled until it slips free of the socket. If you’re having a molar removed or require a surgical extraction, the enamel may need to be broken into smaller pieces to be taken out without damaging your jawbone.

Do Tooth Extractions Hurt?

Your dentist knows that many patients feel anxious around major procedures, like extractions, and will undoubtedly take steps to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your visit. For instance, your dentist will likely start by applying a local anesthetic to prevent the nerves in your teeth, gums, or jawbone from sending pain signals to your brain. You’ll likely feel some pressure throughout your appointment, but you shouldn’t experience outright pain.

Many dentists also offer different medications for extractions, like nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation. These options induce an extreme sense of calm to varying degrees, and you might even feel so relaxed that you doze off. Not only that, but these medications can have a temporary amnesia effect that makes it difficult to remember all the details of your procedure afterwards, which many patients consider an added benefit.

How Much Pain is Normal During Recovery?

Once your troublesome tooth is removed, your mouth must form a blood clot to shield the recently exposed nerves and bone tissue. If it’s damaged or dislodged, bacteria can penetrate the extraction site, causing a painful complication known as dry socket.

Your dentist will provide detailed post-op instructions to follow to avoid this and other complications. For example, they may ask that you avoid strenuous activities, stick to soft foods, and avoid drinking out of a straw for a few days until your mouth mends.

Some mild aches and swelling are normal for the first week or so, but if you have persistent or severe pain that lasts longer, you should call your provider. They may need to schedule another examination to ensure you’re recovering as intended.

Meet the Author

Dr. David Magid has 20+ years of experience helping people improve their daily lives by enhancing their dental health. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine before finishing a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at Columbia University. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs under one roof, including tooth extractions. Plus, he provides various methods of sedation to help you get through your procedure successfully. You can request an appointment on the website or call (973) 227-9211.