Tooth Extraction

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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What do I need to know about a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is a procedure to remove 1 or more teeth. Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for this procedure. He or she will tell you what medicines to take or not take on the day of your procedure.

What will happen during a tooth extraction?

Your dentist or oral surgeon may use medicine to numb the gum around the tooth and dull the pain. You may still feel pressure or pushing during the procedure. He or she may also give you medicine to keep you asleep and free from pain during the procedure. Your surgeon will first use a tool to loosen your tooth. When the tooth is loose enough, the surgeon will use forceps to pull the tooth out. He or she may rinse the site with a sterile solution. The surgeon will apply gauze on the extraction site and ask you to bite down to help control bleeding.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

What will happen after a tooth extraction?

You may have light bleeding for up to 12 hours after your procedure. You may also have pain, swelling, and trouble opening your mouth completely.

What are the risks of a tooth extraction?

• You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. You may have trouble fully opening your mouth for a longer period of time than expected. You may develop dry socket. Dry socket is a condition that prevents a blood clot from forming on the extraction site as it should, or it gets dislodged. Dry socket can cause severe pain. A part of the bone that holds your tooth in place may be broken during the tooth extraction. This can cause your upper and lower teeth to become misaligned. It can also lead to an infection or tingling or numbness.
• The top part of your tooth may break while it is being pulled. Your surgeon may need to cut your gum or part of your bone to remove the rest of the tooth. The nerve near the root of your tooth may be injured during this surgery.

Care Agreement

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