While dentists only extract teeth as a last resort (and for your smile’s benefit), the process doesn’t exactly have a great reputation. Myths about tooth extractions even exist, with many depicting the treatment as awful and scary. However, the rumors and gossip around this removal work are usually false. An extraction from your dentist is just a way to improve your oral health! As proof, consider these four myths about tooth extractions and why they just aren’t true.
“Dentists Only Extract Wisdom Teeth”
Sometimes, people assume that dentists only extract wisdom teeth. The idea is there’d be no reason for them to remove another tooth. Even so, this assumption is patently false.
In reality, dentists can (and do) extract non-wisdom teeth for varied reasons. A person’s tooth could be so decayed or damaged that keeping it would harm their smile. Similarly, a dentist may need to extract teeth that struggle to erupt correctly. If they don’t, the teeth in question could become impacted and cause much pain. Some teeth also need removal prior to orthodontic treatment.
“Tooth Extraction Always Hurts”
Since tooth extraction is often invasive, you could easily think it always hurts. That said, the removal process is actually quite smooth and easy.
You see, dentists take measures to ensure extraction is pain-free. They’ll always numb the treatment site beforehand, ensuring you only feel a slight pressure as they work. Some dental teams will even provide sedatives or anesthesia to make the removal process even easier.
“You Don’t Need to Replace Extracted Teeth”
An extraction removes a problematic tooth, so a patient may assume they don’t need to replace it. Still, this thought doesn’t reflect reality.
With the exception of wisdom teeth, you should always replace a removed tooth. Not doing so will cause an unsightly smile gap that houses harmful bacteria, increasing your risk of decay and infections. The gap will also tilt your remaining teeth, leading to a crooked smile and a misaligned bite.
“Tooth Extraction Recovery is Long”
Because permanent teeth aren’t supposed to “come out,” you may conclude tooth extraction always involves a long recovery. Well, here’s some good news: the healing process isn’t that lengthy!
Unless you have bad health, recovery from a tooth extraction only takes a week or two. Your body can form the needed blood clot and heal your jaw socket in a matter of days. As long as you follow your dentist’s post-op instructions, your mouth will all heal in less than a month.
Clearly, you shouldn’t put too much stock in the myths about tooth extractions. You can trust your dentist when they say the removal process is the best option for your tooth!
About the Practice
Columbus Dental Arts is based in Columbus, NJ. Led by Drs. Fraser and Wolf, our practice can handle nearly all the troubles a smile could face. That means we offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative oral care, as well as treatments for dental emergencies. Our team is just as ready to heal and repair your teeth as it is to extract them! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (609)-324-9500.