Whether you need a wisdom tooth pulled or a tooth that has been compromised beyond repair, you may have heard rumors fueling your anxiety about receiving treatment. Having a trustworthy and honest dentist by your side can help make your tooth extraction more comfortable and stress-free, as they’ll help clear up any misconceptions you may have, like the ones below.
Myth 1: Tooth Extractions Hurt
Despite having heard that tooth extractions can be painful, that’s not actually the case. Many dentists use the latest, non-invasive techniques to quickly and safely extract the tooth after numbing the area with a local anesthetic. This will ensure that you don’t feel any discomfort throughout the process.
Removing a tooth is simple– the dentist will gently jostle the tooth to break it free of its socket, and use an elevator to remove it from your mouth. The entire process can typically be completed in just a couple of minutes!
Myth 2: It Takes a Long Time to Recover from a Tooth Extraction
Simple tooth extractions aren’t as complicated as they may seem. In many cases, there’s no discomfort, sutures, or scalpels involved, and because of this, the healing process isn’t drawn out. As long as you follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, many people are able to get back to work the next day or two after their procedure, and the soft tissue will completely heal in about three weeks.
Myth 3: Extracting a Damaged or Infected Tooth is Always the Best Choice
Every situation is different, but the answer isn’t always to extract a tooth that’s hurting or damaged. In many cases, like with toothaches and infections, your dentist may be able to repair and preserve your natural tooth with other treatments, like root canal therapy.
Not only does this mean that you won’t need to pay to replace any missing teeth, but it will also allow your smile to maintain its natural integrity.
Myth 4: Most Patients Get Dry Socket
Dry sockets are often a big fear for patients who have their teeth extracted. However, as long as you follow your dentist’s post-op tips correctly, this shouldn’t occur. In fact, only about one to three percent of all tooth extraction cases will get dry socket, which is very low!
Although it may feel daunting to commit to a dental procedure with a bad reputation, know that it’s not as scary as everyone makes it out to be. Plus, with an honest dentist by your side, you’ll be able to ask questions candidly, which can help ease any anxiety you feel.
About the Author
Dr. Shahram Modarres has over two decades of experience practicing dentistry. He’s passionate about helping his patients maintain healthy smiles that they’re proud of, even if compromising issues arise, like tooth infections or dental damage. For patients in pain, he offers same-day emergency appointments as well as pain-relieving treatments like root canal therapy and tooth extractions. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Rockville Family Dentistry’s website or call 301-816-9400.