Did you know that an estimated 178 million Americans have lost at least one tooth? You’d think that, with about half of the country’s adult population needing an extraction at some point, everyone would know all about tooth extractions. Yet, mystery and myths still surround this common procedure. Here are just some of the misconceptions about tooth removal and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Tooth Extractions Hurt.
Perhaps a long, long time ago tooth extractions were painful, but the procedure itself won’t hurt today. Your dentist will use a powerful local anesthetic to numb the area completely. In addition, they may offer you a sedative for additional relief from pain and anxiety. As a result, you may not be fully aware of what’s going on around you, and you may even sleep through the whole thing. In other words, your time in the chair should be pleasant and comfortable!
After the anesthesia wears off, you may feel soreness or pain, but it can be managed with either an over-the-counter pain reliever or a prescription. Within a couple of days, the discomfort should lessen.
Myth #2: The Best Way to Deal with an Infected Tooth Is Extraction.
Especially if a tooth is giving you grief and is hurting, you may be tempted to just have it taken out completely and be done with it. However, most dentists consider other options before removing the tooth entirely. As advanced as replacements have become, they still trail the real thing in efficiency and feel. As a result, root canal treatment still preferred whenever possible to help you have better function and save money by preserving more of your natural teeth.
Myth #3: All Wisdom Teeth Must Be Removed.
Although many teens and young adults have their wisdom teeth extracted, this procedure isn’t always required. For some mouths, there is adequate space for these third molars to erupt in healthy alignment without pressing against other teeth. Most people, however, simply don’t have room to accommodate these superfluous teeth, necessitating their extraction.
Myth #4: An Extracted Tooth Doesn’t Need to Be Replaced.
If you have severely overcrowded teeth that can’t be corrected unless a tooth is extracted, or if your wisdom teeth need to be removed, then you might not need replacement. In many other situations, however, replacement is essential if you want to keep the rest of your teeth healthy, properly aligned, and functional. Without a complete smile, you won’t be able to bite and eat your food as efficiently, the spacing in your teeth will be thrown off, and you could suffer from jaw pain and additional tooth loss later. Replacing your extracted teeth, especially with dental implants, can keep your smile on the right track.
Whether you become one of the many who have one or more missing teeth or not, you should know the truth behind the myths about tooth extractions. With this knowledge, you can make better decisions about your oral health!
About the Practice
Located in Lincoln, NE, Pioneer Greens Dentistry prioritizes patient comfort and education. Dr. Justin Shirk and Dr. Stephanie McAndrew have the experience and training to handle extractions in-house, but they also explore other options to determine the best treatment for each individual patient. If you have questions about tooth extractions, don’t hesitate to contact our team online here or call us at 402-483-7502.