Tooth extractions are one of the most feared — and most misunderstood — dental procedures. If you take time to learn the truth about them, you will be prepared to commit to this treatment with confidence. You will also be equipped to know what questions to ask your dental team. How can you gain a well-rounded knowledge about extractions? Start by reading this blog post, where we bust some popular myths.
Myth #1: Tooth Extractions Are Extremely Painful
Before the advent of modern dental techniques, tooth extractions were extremely painful. Today, though, it is a different story. Your dentist can numb the tooth and the area around it, so you might feel some pressure but no real pain. You might even qualify for sedation, which can reduce your body’s response to pain and help you to stay calm and relaxed throughout your appointment.
Myth #2: Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Extracted
Wisdom tooth removal is often seen as sort of a rite of passage for teens and young adults. But did you know that this procedure is not always necessary? Some people can retain their wisdom teeth for a lifetime and suffer no ill consequences because of them.
Of course, the wisdom teeth could start to cause problems at any time. If your dentist recommends that they be removed — even as a precautionary measure — you should seriously consider moving forward with the extractions.
Myth #3: Recovering from a Tooth Extraction Takes a Long Time
The bone at the site of a tooth extraction can take quite a bit of time to heal. However, you should not be aware of what is going on for the majority of its recovery process. After the soft tissue at the extraction site heals (which usually takes just a week or two), your mouth should feel very normal.
Myth #4: It Is Always Best to Extract an Infected or Damaged Tooth
If you have a badly damaged or infected tooth, it might be necessary to remove it. In many cases, though, it is possible to salvage such teeth via root canal therapy and a crown. If that is possible in your specific case, your dentist will let you know about the pros and cons of each option.
Myth #5: It Is Not Necessary to Replace Extracted Teeth
If you get your wisdom teeth removed, or if you have to get extra teeth extracted, there is no need to worry about replacing them. In almost all other instances, though, you should replace any teeth that get removed. If you choose not to do so, you could face a number of serious consequences. For example, you would put yourself at an increased risk of further tooth loss.
There is a lot of misinformation in the world about tooth extractions. Be sure to do some fact-checking so you do not get tricked!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erin Page is a compassionate and accomplished dentist who has more than a decade of experience in her field. She and the team at Capital Smiles are proud to offer gentle, comfortable tooth extractions for patients in the Schenectady community. If you believe you need to get a tooth removed, or you have other concerns related to your oral health, our team is ready to assist you. Contact us at 518-374-0317.