Do you need to have a tooth extracted? Extractions are sometimes necessary for teeth that are decayed, damaged, or crowded. Tooth extraction is normally a relatively simple procedure that can be done in a short amount of time. Some extractions are a bit more complicated and may take a bit more time. Exactly how long does a tooth extraction take? Here’s what you can expect depending on your situation.
How is a Tooth Extracted?
Most tooth extractions can be done with local anesthesia to numb the area. Once the mouth is numb, the tooth is gently loosened from the socket and removed using specialized dental tools. One or a few sutures may be used to close up the gum tissue. The stitches will eventually dissolve or come out on their own as the tissue heals.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction
Teeth may need to be extracted for a number of reasons:
- Severe decay. If a tooth has multiple cavities or a large amount of decay over a major portion of the tooth, it may be too damaged to save.
- Broken tooth. If a large portion of a tooth breaks off and there is not enough tooth material left to place a crown, the tooth may need to be extracted.
- Cracked tooth. A small crack in a tooth can often be treated with a crown. However, a large crack that begins or extends under the gums means the tooth most likely cannot be saved and will need to be extracted.
- Crowding. When there is not enough room in the mouth for all of the teeth, it can help to extract one or more primary or even permanent teeth in some cases.
- Impacted tooth. A tooth that doesn’t come in properly may be stuck underneath the gums and is blocked by another tooth. It may be necessary to remove the impacted tooth or the tooth that is blocking it.
Average Timeframe of a Tooth Extraction Procedure
Tooth extraction is typically a quick procedure. The process of extracting one tooth can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes on average. This includes the time it takes to apply anesthesia and allow it to take effect, as well as the procedure itself. The exact amount of time you spend in the dental chair will depend on a variety of factors.
What Factors Affect Timing?
There are a number of factors that may affect the amount of time an extraction procedure takes, such as:
- Number of teeth being extracted. The number of teeth being extracted will affect timing. Each additional tooth that is extracted during the same appointment will increase the total procedure duration.
- The location of the tooth. Where the tooth is located in your mouth will affect how long it takes to extract. A tooth toward the back of the mouth is more difficult to access and may take longer than a tooth near the front of the mouth.
- The size of the tooth. The larger the tooth, the longer it may take to extract. Molars will be more difficult to remove than bicuspids for example.
- The complexity of the extraction procedure. If the tooth being extracted is impacted, the procedure to remove it will be more complex and will take longer.
Why Choose Barkoff Dental for Your Tooth Extraction?
Basic tooth extraction is a relatively simple procedure. Barkoff Dental provides tooth extraction services for a variety of reasons and situations. We offer a range of anesthesia and sedation options to make your experience as comfortable and relaxing as possible. Our minimally invasive approach allows you to recover quickly and resume your regular daily activities.
Call 516-921-1133 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.