Is it about time to say goodbye to that troubled tooth of yours? This is never your dentist’s first choice, but sometimes a tooth extraction is necessary to preserve the health of the rest of your smile. There is all sorts of misinformation out there, regarding tooth extractions, and it can be difficult to know what’s correct. Read on to learn about some of the most common myths out there and why they aren’t true.
Myth 1: Tooth Extractions Are Painful
This is likely the most common myth you have heard about tooth extractions. Many people expect it to be an unpleasant experience. Fortunately, with modern dental anesthetics, this isn’t the case these days. During this common procedure, your dentist will numb the area with an anesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain during the extraction. You will likely experience some soreness for a few days afterward, but this can be managed with over-the-counter and prescribed pain relievers recommended by your dentist.
Myth 2: It Takes a Long Time to Recover
It usually only takes a week or two for the socket to heal after an extraction, but most patients only feel lingering discomfort for a few days afterward. When you carefully follow the instructions of your dentist, you will be back to your normal schedule in no time!
Myth 3: Wisdom Teeth Are the Only Teeth that Need to Be Extracted
While this may be the case for some people, it doesn’t work this way for everyone. It is common to need to have your wisdom teeth removed, but not everyone does. Some people need to have additional teeth removed for one reason or another, like severe decay, an injury, impacted teeth, or limited space in the mouth.
Myth 4: You Don’t Need to Replace Your Extracted Tooth
Many patients believe that they are in the clear once they have had their trouble tooth removed, but this isn’t always the case. Depending on the reason for your extraction, you may need to have it replaced to prevent future oral health issues. When there is a gap in your smile, your other teeth will move around to try to fill the space. The jawbone will no longer be stimulated in this area either, so it will shrink over time. Talk to your dentist about tooth replacement options if necessary so you can avoid dental problems in the future.
Having a tooth extracted doesn’t need to be an unpleasant experience. Your smile will be good as new in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Barry R. Franzen is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over three decades. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Marquette University School of Dentistry and is a proud member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, Wisconsin Dental Association, and American College of Prosthodontics. For more information on tooth extractions or to schedule an appointment at his office in Milwaukee, visit his website or call (414) 543-5432.