Having to get a tooth pulled can be a nerve-wracking experience. Leading up to your appointment, you may be worried about how painful your tooth extraction may feel; however, you can relax. Your local dentist will do everything to ensure your tooth extraction is as pain free as possible.

Different Types of Anesthesia Used for a Tooth Extraction

Depending on the complexity of your tooth extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon may use one of the following types of anesthesia to manage your pain level:

1. Local anesthesia

   Used for simple extractions, this process starts with a numbing substance that is applied to your gums around the tooth that’s being extracted. Then, a local anesthetic is injected near the extraction site to make the process completely pain free. You will be awake during surgery, so you may feel pressure and tugging sensations, but no pain.

2. Sedation anesthesia

   Used for more complex extractions, sedation anesthesia uses nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or an intravenous (IV) line in your arm to relax you during the tooth extraction. Even though you are still awake, you will feel drowsy and have very little memory of the procedure. Local anesthesia may also be given to numb any pain.

3. General anesthesia

   Used for special situations like wisdom tooth extraction, general anesthesia is administered through an IV in your arm or gas inhalation through your nose to fully put you to sleep for the extraction. You will be unconscious, feel no pain, and have no memory of the procedure. However, you may feel groggy when you awake after surgery.

Steps to Decrease Your Pain After a Tooth Extraction

After the anesthesia wears off, you will likely feel some pain. It is crucial to take care of yourself after your procedure by following your dentist’s orders and reminding yourself that the healing process takes time. Here are some helpful ways to ensure a speedy and painless recovery:
Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) when needed

1. Make sure to rest
2. Eat soft foods
3. Use a warm compress or an ice pack
4. When lying down, prop your head up
5. Rinse your mouth with saltwater starting one day after surgery

While being told you need to get a tooth pulled can sound scary, your Leesburg, Florida dentist, Dr. Orobitg, and his experienced team are prepared to make your tooth extraction process as easy going as possible.

Trust the Gentle Dental Care of Dr. Eddie Orobitg

For over 20 years, Eddie Orobitg, D.M.D. has treated the Leesburg community with quality dental health checkups and restorative procedures. If you need a tooth extraction, rely on your experienced local dentist, Dr. Orobitg, to take care of all your dental needs. Call 352-787-5919 to schedule your appointment today.