Lake Boone Dentistry of Raleigh Blog

Hearing that you need a tooth extraction can be a little intimidating, but the good news is that modern dental techniques make the procedure far more comfortable than most people expect. Whether you’re having a wisdom tooth removed or a severely damaged tooth extracted, understanding what to expect can ease your nerves. Here’s a look at what a tooth extraction feels like—from start to finish.

Before the Extraction: Getting Numb and Comfortable

Before your dentist begins, they’ll make sure you’re completely comfortable. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area around the tooth so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. You might feel a brief pinch or sting when the numbing medication is first administered, but that sensation fades quickly.

Once the area is numb, you won’t feel pain—but you may still notice some pressure or movement as your dentist works. Think of it like someone pushing gently on your tooth, not hurting it. For patients who feel especially anxious, sedation options—like nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) or oral sedation—can help you stay relaxed throughout the appointment.

During the Extraction: Pressure, Not Pain

Once you’re numb, your dentist will use specialized instruments to loosen and remove the tooth. You’ll feel pressure but not sharp pain. The pressure comes from your dentist gently rocking the tooth back and forth to widen the socket and release it.

If your tooth is impacted or has multiple roots (like molars), your dentist may need to section it into smaller pieces for easier removal. Even then, you’ll remain comfortable—thanks to the anesthesia. Most people describe the feeling as “odd” or “strange,” but not painful.

After the Extraction: Mild Soreness and Recovery

Once the tooth is removed, your dentist will place gauze over the extraction site to control bleeding and help a clot form. As the numbness wears off over the next few hours, you may start to feel some mild soreness or tenderness in the area.

Over-the-counter pain relievers and an ice pack usually help manage any discomfort. Most patients feel much better within a few days. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions—like avoiding straws and sticking to soft foods—will help prevent complications such as dry socket and speed up healing.

A tooth extraction might sound daunting, but it’s typically a smooth, pain-free experience. Thanks to modern anesthesia and skilled techniques, what you’ll mostly feel is pressure—not pain. If you’re nervous about an upcoming extraction, talk with your dentist—they’ll walk you through every step and ensure you’re as comfortable as possible.

About the Practice

Got a tooth that’s beyond repair? At Lake Boone Dentistry Raleigh, our compassionate and caring team can handle your tooth extraction with expertise and compassion. We’re focused on helping you feel comfortable, and that comes through in our modern office with patient-friendly amenities. Our replacement options are natural-looking, so rest assure you’re getting a discreet solution. Ready to get started? Schedule an appointment online or call (919) 781-8610.

Each year, it’s estimated that over 5 million US children and adults experience a knocked-out tooth—and while these types of dental injuries are usually the result of sports injuries, the truth is, they can happen when you least expect them to. That said, it’s not an issue you should ignore; however, is it one that you can handle yourself by putting the tooth back in its socket? Here’s why it’s best to move quickly when you discover that you’ve lost a tooth and how your emergency dentist can save the day!

When you’ve just had tough and chewy food, using a toothpick can seem like an obvious move. How else are you going to get the “leftovers” out of your smile? That said, you should honestly think twice; toothpicks are rather bad for your teeth. You’re better off replacing these tiny tools with safer ones, which wouldn’t harm your grin. Just learn the relevant details in this helpful summary from your Raleigh dentist.

Many people who experience anxiety or even fear at the thought of visiting the dental office often skip out on their routine cleaning appointments. The same can happen for busy parents and businesspeople! Unfortunately, even missing one dental cleaning can have consequences. Read on to learn five reasons why you shouldn’t skip a dental cleaning and checkup.

Has it been a while since your last preventive dental appointment? If so, it is understandable if you are a bit nervous about what to expect. There is no need to be overly anxious; your dentist and their team want you to have a positive experience! Still, you may wonder if it will hurt to get your teeth cleaned. This blog post tells you what you can expect and provides tips that may reduce discomfort during your appointment.

Do ERs handle dental emergencies? Is it a wise decision to seek immediate medical attention as opposed to your local dentist? There is no clear answer for every situation, especially since where you should go is largely dependent on the type of injury you sustain. However, in most cases, you may be relieved to learn that spending hours in an ER lobby may not be the most effective way to get help. Keep reading to discover why it’s best to let your oral healthcare provider address your dental emergency.

Invisalign aligners are a convenient and discreet way to straighten your teeth, but because they’re removable, and remarkably clear and transparent, they’re also somewhat easy to lose or misplace. Whether your aligner went missing at a restaurant, was mistakenly thrown away, or you’ve accidentally damaged it, the last thing you should do is panic—and you shouldn’t ignore the issue, either, since it can lead to treatment setbacks! Here are some easy-to-remember steps you can take if you find yourself with a lost Invisalign aligner.

When people think of Invisalign, they usually picture a discreet and modern alternative to traditional metal braces. While it’s true that Invisalign is popular for its ability to straighten teeth without wires and brackets, the benefits go far beyond aesthetics. These clear aligners offer a range of advantages that can enhance both oral health and overall quality of life. Here are some of the often-overlooked benefits of choosing Invisalign.

Invisalign has allowed tens of millions of people around the globe to straighten their teeth and fix their bites without having to wear metal braces, but should it be used by every person who needs orthodontics? The truth is that while this treatment is safe and effective, there are a few complications that can occur, and it’s best to consider them before you begin. What are they, and more importantly, is Invisalign still worth it?  

It’s late at night, you need to get to sleep, but your toothache is working overtime right now. You won’t be able to see your emergency dentist until the next morning, and you have work after that. What should you do? Thankfully, you don’t have to resign yourself to hours of tossing and turning—just use these simple tips to get the relief (and rest) you need.