Getting your tooth pulled, typically, is not something people look forward to. However, your dentist may tell you at one point that receiving a tooth extraction is the best form of treatment for some of your teeth, especially if your teeth are severely decayed. The first thing to do when you hear this news is to remain calm. Many people conjure up a classic, obsolete, and quite unrealistic image;  specifically, the image of a dentist literally pulling teeth with a metal tool while a strapped down patient screams.

Nothing could be further from the truth–at least at Greenspoint Dental. We use state-of-the-art technology to a deliver a seamless experience to all of our patients. Even with advanced technology, our patients often come forward with questions. Here are 4 big questions about pulling teeth:

 

Question: Will getting my teeth pulled hurt?

 

Answer: No. By using sedatives, your dentist ensures that you will feel no pain during the procedure. At the most, you will feel some pressure as the dentist pushes (not pulls, contrary to popular belief) the tooth out of its gum socket. However, after the procedure, when the sedatives have worn off, you may experience some moderate pain or discomfort. Thankfully, your dentist will prescribe some pain medications while the symptoms fade over the next several days.

 

Question: How long will it take?

 

Answer: The answer to this question varies — it largely depends on the shape of the tooth and the state of the condition.. In some cases, your dentist may be able to remove the tooth in a matter of minutes. Procedures involving difficult, hard to reach teeth can consume the better part of an hour or more. The whole appointment could take anywhere from twenty minutes to three hours. Consult with your dentist for a more accurate prediction.

 

Question: How long will I bleed and swell?

Answer: One side effect of pulling teeth is gum bleeding and swelling of the mouth. You will be given a gauze pad to bite on immediately after pulling your teeth, and you may experience intermittent bleeding for the next couple of days. Likewise, your mouth and cheeks will swell over the next several days after the appointment. Fortunately, these symptoms are inconveniences that can be easily treated at home.

 

Question: Will I have a permanent gap in my teeth?

 

Answer: No. Greenspoint Dental offers many services to help restore your smile to its bright and dazzling state, regardless of how many teeth you had extracted. Dentures and dental implants are two options you may consider, in addition to many more.
Interested in learning more about tooth extractions? Want to schedule an appointment? Contact Greenspoint Dental at our Houston, Texas offices today.