If you need a tooth removed, it’s natural to wonder how long the process will take. At Camas Dentistry, we strive to make every procedure as comfortable as possible including educating patients on what to expect.
Simple vs. Surgical Extraction
The total time for a tooth extraction depends on the complexity of your case. A simple extraction for teeth that are fully visible and erupted usually takes 20 to 40 minutes from start (numbing) to finish (full removal).
A surgical extraction required for impacted teeth or those broken below the gumline, may take 45 to 60 minutes or longer, depending on the tooth’s condition and location. This type of procedure often involves small incisions and possibly sutures.
What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction
It is perfectly normal to experience some discomfort after a tooth extraction. Here’s what to expect:
- Pain and swelling — Dental extraction is invasive. Some pain and swelling may occur for a couple of days, which is normal. This should be manageable with ice and over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Jaw stiffness — It's normal to experience stiffness or soreness in your jaw. This should subside within a few days and be similarly manageable with at-home measures.
- Bleeding – Minor bleeding after an extraction is common. Your dentist will place gauze over the site immediately after the procedure to minimize this and speed up healing.
Gentle, Pain-Free Tooth Extraction in Camas, WA
If you’re in Camas and want to learn more about the dental extraction process and proper aftercare, contact Dr. Demian Woyciehowsky and the excellent Camas Dentistry team to schedule your consultation.