4 Myths Around Having a Tooth Pulled

Why would I need a tooth extraction?

During a tooth extraction, we surgically remove a tooth that has become problematic. It may be damaged, crowding the other teeth in your mouth or coming in an improper position. This can cause pain and discomfort, leaving extraction as your best bet.

The procedure is sometimes known as “pulling teeth”. There’s no reason to fear a tooth extraction.

What are some myths about having a tooth pulled?

Here are some myths about the procedure that we often hear from concerned patients:

1. Having a tooth pulled is painful.

One of the most common misconceptions about tooth extraction is that you will experience pain. This is no longer the case, as anesthesia, modern technology, and best-practice dental techniques are used to reduce pain.

2. Tooth extraction is a go-to dental procedure.

This is also untrue. Most dentists should avoid extracting teeth in favour of preventive, more non-invasive treatment methods since extraction can sometimes result in dental issues (such as misalignment) or needing more treatments such as tooth replacements in the future.

Unless the tooth is severely infected, damaged, fractured or decayed beyond repair, alternatives such as a root canal are often recommended.

However, tooth extraction is sometimes unavoidable. Practice good oral hygiene and wear a mouthguard during high-impact sports and physical activities to reduce your chances of needing a tooth extraction.

3. It will take a long time to recover.

Though you may envision needing to cancel commitments and move your schedule around for some time, this isn’t the case. In most cases, you should recover from the surgery within 3 to 4 days and be able to return to work or school.

However, if the extraction was complicated, some patients may require up to a week to recover. Though the tooth socket may take 2 to 4 weeks to heal completely, your mouth should be functional again within a few days. To hasten recovery, eat soft foods and avoid smoking or strenuous physical activity, which can dislodge the blood clot.

Ask your dentist about other after-care instructions that help to promote healing, reduce pain and prevent the tooth socket from becoming infected.

4. Everyone needs their wisdom teeth pulled.

Though you may hear a lot about people between the ages of 17 and 25 needing their wisdom teeth extracted, our dentists will not recommend the procedure in some cases. Your wisdom teeth may emerge without causing potential harm, pain, or damage to the rest of your teeth in some cases.

To find out whether you need your wisdom teeth removed, schedule an appointment with our Calgary dentists.

Do you think you might need to get a tooth pulled? Our Calgary dentists can examine your teeth and potentially recommend a referral or other options depending on your case. Contact us today.