Tooth Extraction

Thankfully, the days of the “Old West” are over.  Dentists were becoming popular then but did not have access to the tools and anesthetics available today.  Dental work was done only when infection or injury was present, making dentist visits quite traumatic and painful.

Tooth extraction means removing the tooth from the jawbone – “having it pulled.”  The process for tooth extraction is virtually painless with the quality of anesthesic used by Dr. DiMattia.  The injection of the anesthetic is typically the only discomfort involved and is further reduced with the use of a numbing gel on the gums where the injection is given.

After a waiting period for full anesthetic effect, the tooth is rocked back and forth to loosen it from the socket.  When free, the tooth is removed, hopefully in one piece.   In cases where the tooth has already cracked or broken, several pieces may need to be removed.

Gauze is used to cushion the empty socket, and a soft diet is suggested for the rest of the day.  It is a good idea to avoid using straws for 24 to 48 hours.  Pain medication may be given for any post-procedure pain, but it is typically minimal.

Dr. DiMattia and his staff strive for all dental procedures to be as pain-free as possible.