What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction: From Preparation to Recovery

Tooth extraction can sound intimidating, but it’s a common dental procedure that is often necessary to maintain or improve your oral health. Whether it's due to decay, damage, or overcrowding, knowing what to expect before, during, and after the extraction process can help ease any anxiety you may have.

Before your extraction, Dr. Estrada will thoroughly examine your tooth and determine whether it requires a simple or surgical extraction. Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are visible, while surgical extractions are required for teeth that haven’t fully emerged or are impacted, such as wisdom teeth. In both cases, local anesthesia will be used to ensure you're comfortable throughout the procedure.

During the extraction, Dr. Estrada will carefully remove the tooth, ensuring minimal discomfort. If sedation dentistry is an option you're interested in, we offer nitrous oxide or oral sedation to help keep you calm and relaxed. The extraction itself is typically quick, and any post-operative pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

After the extraction, it’s essential to follow all aftercare instructions, such as keeping the extraction site clean and avoiding certain foods. Full recovery usually takes about a week, with most patients returning to normal activities after the first 24 hours. If you have any concerns about tooth extractions, feel free to reach out to our team at Estrada Dentistry for more information.