A dental extraction is the removal of teeth from the socket in the alveolar bone. Extractions are performed for various reasons, such as tooth decay, periodontal disease, or dental trauma. Most extractions can be performed while the individual is awake by using local anesthetic injections to eliminate pain.
Some teeth are more difficult to remove due to their position, the shape of the roots, and the tooth’s integrity.
After the tooth is removed, a bite pack is used to stop the bleeding, and the patient is advised to avoid disturbing the blood clot, not to touch the area, and avoid vigorous mouth rinsing and strenuous activity. Oral surgery is the branch of dentistry that primarily deals with extractions, but general dentists and other dental specialists may also perform extractions as it is a core skill taught in dental schools.
One possible way to extract teeth without causing pain would be to use a technique called “twilight sedation.” This method involves sedative medications to make the patient feel relaxed and drowsy but not entirely unconscious, this allows the patient to be awake during the procedure, but they will not feel pain or have any memory of the process.
Another option would be to use a “conscious sedation” method during extraction, in which a person is given a mild sedative and a local anesthetic to dull pain and anxiety, making the procedure less uncomfortable.
Another method could be the use of laser technology during the extraction procedure. Laser energy can be used to remove tissue, bone, and soft tissue around the tooth and the laser energy can help to control bleeding and minimize trauma to the surrounding tissue.
