4 Common Myths About Tooth Extractions

Recent research estimates that upwards of 61% of people experience dental-related anxiety, especially surrounding more extensive procedures, like tooth extractions. If you’re in the same boat, then the stress, nerves, and worry you experience may stem from something you heard, like that having a tooth removed is painful. That’s why it’s so important to do some fact-checking with your dentist! In the meantime, you can read on to learn four common myths about tooth extractions.

Myth #1: Tooth Extractions Are Painful

Of course, one of the biggest myths surrounding tooth extractions is that the procedure is painful. That’s not the case because the first step is always the same: numbing your mouth. Plus, your dental team will provide you with aftercare instructions to keep sensitivity, soreness, and discomfort at bay during the healing process, like sticking to soft foods and brushing carefully around the extraction site.

Myth #2: Everyone Needs Their Wisdom Teeth Removed

Actually, some patients don’t have wisdom teeth! Others do have their third set of molars emerge, but they grow in straight and there is enough room in their mouth to accommodate them, so removing them isn’t necessary. Ultimately, having them extracted is only recommended when they pose a threat – whether it’s to your oral health, your quality of life, or the alignment of your bite.

Myth #3: Extracting a Damaged Tooth Is Always the Best Option

Although tooth extractions are sometimes the best option, your dentist will only recommend this emergency dental treatment once they’ve exhausted every other one. That’s because all dental professionals share the same goal: to preserve your natural teeth. So, if it’s possible to restore your oral health with root canal treatment or a dental crown, they will recommend that instead!

Myth #4: Replacing the Tooth Isn’t Necessary

If your tooth was removed to make room in your mouth prior to beginning orthodontic treatment, then it doesn’t make sense to replace it. If, however, the tooth was removed due to extreme decay or damage, then it should be replaced with a dental bridge, denture, or dental implant. That way, the look, health, and function of your smile are preserved.

Want to fact-check something else you heard about tooth extractions? Then take the next step: get in touch with your dentist!

About the Practice

Skillman Family Dentistry of Dallas is led by an exceptional dentist, Dr. Henry. Not only that, but we are open six days a week, we welcome several financial solutions, and we offer sedation dentistry so patients who struggle with dental-related anxiety can have the comfortable, positive experience they deserve at our office. If you would like to learn more about tooth extractions, including if you need one, then get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (469) 998-9822.