Hello, everyone. This is Dr. Shivani Mangal, a root canal specialist practicing in Dwarka, New Delhi. The topic we are going to discuss today is indeed the scariest dental treatment in the minds of the majority of patients, which is tooth extraction. First of all, let me make it very clear that we really do not want to remove your tooth. Gone are the days when tooth extraction used to be the only option for a bad or decayed tooth. In today’s time, it is only the last resort when we have exhausted all other solutions for your bad tooth.
However, whenever I tell my patients that a tooth is bad and needs to be removed, they are often hesitant due to certain doubts or myths in their minds due to which they are not ready for extraction. Let’s address these doubts and see if I can solve them for you.
Myth #1: Tooth Extraction is a Painless Procedure in Modern Dentistry
Tooth extraction is a painful procedure. No, absolutely false. It is a very painless procedure in today’s modern dentistry. Specialist doctors or maxillofacial surgeons work with advanced technologies and use the most advanced anesthetic agents to ensure that the extraction procedure is very comfortable for the patients. After the procedure, proper instructions and medications are given to take care of the healing process. Therefore, tooth extraction is not going to be painful, both intraoperatively as well as postoperatively.
Myth #2: The Healing Period after Tooth Extraction: Unveiling the Truth
The healing period is going to be very long. Again, false. The average healing period after a tooth extraction procedure is a maximum of two weeks. Some days may vary depending on your age and medical condition, but it will not be longer than that.
Myth #3: Dispelling the Belief of Tooth Extraction’s Impact on Eyes or Eyesight
Patients believe that if their upper tooth is removed, it will have an effect on their eyes or eyesight. This is baseless and false. There are certain nerves that supply each and every organ in our body. So in simple terms, the nerve that supplies our teeth is nerve number five whereas the nerve that supplies our eyes is a normal number two. They have no connection with each other. Therefore, removing your tooth is not going to impact your eyes or eyesight.
Myth #4: Tooth Extraction: The Last Resort for a Bad Tooth
Tooth extraction is the only solution if I have a bad tooth. As I mentioned earlier, tooth extraction is only the last resort. We always try to save your natural tooth for as long as possible. Extraction is recommended only when we feel that a certain tooth cannot be saved, or it will have an adverse effect on the health of other teeth or your overall health.
I always emphasize that tooth decay is a slow process, and nature gives us ample time to take care of our teeth. It’s important to prioritize our oral health by visiting the dentist regularly and receiving timely treatment. However, sometimes we fail to prioritize our oral health, which may result in the loss of our teeth. So, I request you all to be aware of your oral health, come for dental visits, let us treat your teeth, and let us save your teeth. And if a tooth cannot be saved, please get it removed. Thank you so much.
FAQs:-
Q: Will I be awake during a tooth extraction?
A: Yes, you will be awake during a tooth extraction. However, your dentist may offer sedation options to help you relax and make the experience more comfortable.
Q: Is tooth extraction necessary for all dental problems?
A: No, tooth extraction is not always necessary. Dentists explore various treatment options before recommending extraction. They prioritize saving natural teeth whenever possible.
Q: Do I need to replace the extracted tooth with an artificial one?
A: Depending on the location and function of the extracted tooth, your dentist may suggest a replacement option like a dental implant, bridge, or denture. However, not all extractions require immediate replacement.
Q: Can I eat normally after a tooth extraction?
A: After tooth extraction, you’ll need to follow specific dietary restrictions during the initial healing phase. Soft foods are recommended and gradually progress to a normal diet as instructed by your dentist.
Q: How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
A: The recovery period varies based on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing factors. Generally, it takes about one to two weeks for the extraction site to heal completely.
