Extraction of (wisdom) teeth
In principle, we aim to keep teeth and molars in the mouth for as long as possible; however, sometimes a tooth or molar can no longer be preserved or is in a position that is not functional. In such cases, the tooth must be extracted.
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
In most cases, we can adequately anesthetize a tooth or molar for an extraction so that you feel no pain during the procedure. In some cases, when the area around a tooth or molar is very inflamed, the tooth may not become fully numb. In such situations, we often prescribe a course of antibiotics to reduce the inflammation and schedule the extraction for a week later.
Tooth extracted, now what?
After a tooth or molar extraction, you will be given a small piece of gauze to bite on. You should bite down on this gauze for one hour; the pressure on the wound will help stop the bleeding. It is advisable not to rinse your mouth vigorously during the first three days after the extraction. This is because the wound can easily reopen in the first few days, which may cause bleeding. If you experience significant pain after the anesthesia wears off, you can take a painkiller, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Post-extraction pain usually subsides after a few days, but in some cases, it can last up to two weeks.