If you’re undergoing a tooth extraction, you most likely have a problem with your tooth or gums that is causing discomfort. It sounds like a scary procedure, but the relief patients feel afterward is well worth it.

Here’s what to expect during the tooth extraction process.

First of all, it’s important to remember that tooth extractions are very common and dentists perform this procedure all the time. The procedure starts with a dentist administering an anesthetic to numb the area where your tooth will be pulled. Before the procedure, your dentist will test your numbness and ensure that you are not in pain.

The actual tooth extraction is fairly simple. If your tooth is impacted, the dentist will cut away gum and bone tissue that cover the tooth and then, using forceps, grasp your tooth and gently rock it back and forth to loosen it from the jaw bone and ligaments that hold it in place. Sometimes, a hard-to-extract tooth must be removed in pieces. After the extraction, a blood clot usually fills the gap left by the tooth. To make sure this doesn’t become a problem, a gauze will be inserted to prevent excessive bleeding. Oftentimes, stitches will be used to patch the gap left.

In the case of wisdom teeth removal, the exact steps of the procedure will differ based on how many wisdom teeth are being removed at once and whether the teeth are impacted. Wisdom teeth removal is an extremely safe procedure that most people will have to have at some point in their lives.

If you’re worried about an impending tooth extraction or have questions, feel free to call us at 207-781-4216. As we said, tooth extractions are nothing to be stressed out about!