Are you feeling anxious about needing a tooth pulled? You’re not alone.
Many people wonder what to expect before, during, and after a tooth extraction. Whether it’s due to severe decay, infection, crowding, or trauma, understanding the experience can help ease your nerves.
Here’s a breakdown of what a typical tooth extraction feels like and what sensations you may experience throughout the process.
Before the Extraction: Numbing and Preparation
The first step in a tooth extraction is making sure you’re completely comfortable. Your dentist will start by numbing the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. This might involve a small pinch or sting when the needle is inserted, but it only lasts a few seconds. Once the anesthetic takes effect, your mouth will feel numb—sometimes even your cheek, tongue, or jaw.
If you’re undergoing a surgical extraction or dealing with high anxiety, your dentist might offer sedation options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedatives to help you relax. The goal is to ensure you don’t feel pain—only pressure and movement.
During the Extraction: Pressure Without Pain
When the area is fully numb, your dentist will begin the extraction. They’ll use special dental instruments to loosen the tooth. This part of the procedure usually involves some pressure, tugging, or rocking sensations, but it should not be painful.
Many patients describe the feeling as odd or strange rather than uncomfortable. You may hear some noises like cracking or popping as the tooth is removed, especially if it’s deeply rooted. This is completely normal and doesn’t indicate a problem. Surgical extractions, often needed for impacted teeth, may involve a small incision in the gum and possible tooth sectioning, but again, you shouldn’t feel any pain due to the anesthesia.
After the Extraction: Mild Discomfort and Healing
Once the tooth is out, your dentist will pack the socket with gauze to control bleeding and help a clot form. As the numbness wears off over the next few hours, you may begin to feel some soreness or mild pain. This is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medications or any prescribed options your dentist provides.
Swelling, tenderness, and slight jaw stiffness are also normal during the healing process. Most people feel much better after the first 24–48 hours. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions—such as avoiding straws, smoking, or hard foods—can help ensure a smooth recovery.
If you’re undergoing an emergency tooth extraction due to trauma or severe infection, the healing process may be similar, although your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or additional care instructions.
Tooth extractions sound more intimidating than they feel. With proper anesthesia and post-op care, the experience is more about pressure than pain.
About the Practice
Dr. Joshua Hong and Dr. Caleb Goodman offer expert general and emergency dental care in Goodyear, AZ. With a gentle, patient-first approach, our team provides thorough evaluations, pain-free tooth extractions, and comprehensive post-op support to help patients recover quickly and comfortably. Whether you’re dealing with an emergency tooth extraction or a planned procedure, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Call us at (623) 925-8822 or request an appointment online.