Tooth Extraction

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When tooth damage is too extensive for treatment, the tooth must be removed. Tooth extraction may be necessary for many reasons, including severe damage or decay.  

One of the most common dental procedures, a tooth extraction, can eliminate bacteria and improve your overall oral health. Healthcare providers prefer to save natural teeth whenever possible. But sometimes, other restorative methods such as dental fillings or dental crowns aren’t enough. If your tooth has been badly damaged past the point of repair, then removal may be necessary.   

What happens during a tooth extraction? 

Local anesthesia is given to numb your affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Using specialized instruments, your dentist will gently loosen your tooth and carefully lift it from its socket. Once your tooth is removed, the socket is cleaned and disinfected. In some cases, your dentist may also place a dental bone graft, which helps prevent bone loss in your jaw. Finally, stitches may be placed to help promote healing.  

What happens after a tooth extraction? 

When the procedure is complete, your dentist will place a piece of gauze over the extraction site and ask you to bite down with firm, steady pressure. This helps slow bleeding so a blood clot can form. Clotting is a normal aspect of recovery and promotes healing. The gauze can be removed once the bleeding has slowed enough. You may continue to have light bleeding throughout the first 24 hours.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction? 

It depends on the complexity of your case. However, most people feel back to normal in just a few days. While you’ll be able to return to routine activities within 24 to 72 hours, it usually takes the jawbone several weeks to heal completely.

Call Sioux Falls Dental Implant Center today at (605) 799-2929 for your free consultation and same day treatment for tooth extraction in Sioux Falls, SD!