You might have heard friends and neighbors talking casually about their dental care experiences, or perhaps media sources have influenced your view of various procedures. While such sources of information can be accurate at times, they also present a danger; they can perpetuate misconceptions! Tooth extractions, in particular, have been a victim of several myths. What is the reality about this procedure? Continue reading below to find out.
Myth#1: Tooth Extractions Are Extremely Painful
Before the advent of modern dental techniques and anesthesia, tooth extractions were painful. Nowadays, though, things are different. Local numbing agents can prevent you from feeling pain during the extraction procedure; you may just notice pressure. You might also qualify for sedation, which can make the process even easier. In fact, you may not even remember your appointment after the sedative wears off!
Myth #2: There Is No Need to Replace Extracted Teeth
When wisdom teeth are removed, there is usually no need to replace them. But in most other situations, replacing a missing tooth is important. If a space is left untreated, nearby teeth can slowly shift out of position, which may affect your bite and overall oral health. You may also experience issues like a lack of confidence in your appearance, difficulty eating, problems with your gums, and additional tooth loss over time. Replacing a tooth sooner rather than later — whether with a dental implant or another restorative option — can help keep your smile healthy, comfortable and looking its best.
Myth #3: Extracting a Tooth Is Always the Best Way to End a Toothache
When a tooth is removed, the nerve that was sending pain signals to the brain is disconnected from your body. Therefore, an extraction can effectively end a painful toothache. However, it is not a first-line treatment option for issues like decay and infections. Often, dentists are able to preserve damaged teeth and provide pain relief. If the damage is severe enough, though, extraction will likely be the best option.
Myth #4: Tooth Extractions Are Always Performed in the Same Way
Some people are under the impression that “a tooth extraction is a tooth extraction.” However, that is not the case. There are simple (non-surgical) extractions, as well as surgical extractions. Some practitioners even include bone grafting during the extraction procedure. Essentially, that means they fill in the tooth’s socket with a bone graft so the site will be better equipped to support a dental implant in the future.
Has this blog post taught you anything new about tooth extractions? Talk to a dental professional if you would like more information about this procedure.
Meet the Practice
At the Lightfoot Center for Laser Periodontics, our team is proud to serve patients in Braintree, Duxbury, Hingham, and Norwood. Tooth extractions, bone grafting, and dental implant tooth replacement are among the many services offered by our highly skilled team. To learn more about us or to set up a consultation, get in touch with us at 781-762-9332.