Tooth Extraction

The goal of dentistry and maintaining good oral health is to preserve as many natural teeth as possible throughout an entire lifetime.  Unfortunately, injuries and disease can damage teeth to the point where they need to be entirely removed from the jaw.  This removal is called a tooth extraction, and it sounds scarier than it should. 

The phrase “like pulling teeth” originates from the old west days when dentists pulled teeth with a pair of plyers and without anesthesia.  We’ve come a long way since then.  It is not the traumatic experience it used to be. 

Since knowledge helps alleviate fear, we let the patient know everything that is being done. 

First, the area around the tooth is anesthetized.  A small cotton swab with numbing gel is placed on the gums where the injection will be administered.  The gel makes the injection itself less uncomfortable, feeling more like a pinching sensation.  After the anesthetic is in the gum line, a small amount of time is allowed for the medication to take effect. 

The area will be tested to be sure there is no pain, and then the extraction will begin.  Gentle rocking motions are used to loosen the root from the jawbone.  The goal is to remove the entire tooth in one piece, but sometimes, the tooth will break and need to be removed in sections. 

At any point during the extraction, you may hear a loud pop.  Be assured that it only sounds loud to you (the patient) as the tooth releases from the bone.  The popping sound is harmless. 

If any pain is felt during the extraction, Dr. Kim can administer more anesthetic.  The extraction should not cause any pain.