No, the procedure itself should not be painful since your oral surgeon will use Local Anesthesia, Sedation, or General Anesthesia to numb the area. After the extraction, you may experience some soreness, swelling, or mild discomfort, but pain medication and following post-op care instructions will help you heal comfortably.
Most patients feel back to normal within a few days, but full healing takes 1-2 weeks. Swelling and tenderness are usually worst in the first 48 hours and then gradually improve. If stitches are used, they may dissolve on their own or be removed after a week or so.
Stick to soft foods for the first few days, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, scrambled eggs, and soup. Avoid hot, crunchy, spicy, or sticky foods that could irritate the extraction site. It’s also important to avoid using straws to prevent a painful complication called dry socket.
Dry socket happens when the protective blood clot at the extraction site dislodges too soon, exposing the bone and nerves underneath. This can be very painful and delay healing. To avoid dry socket, don’t smoke, use straws, spit forcefully, or eat hard foods for at least a week after the extraction.
The cost varies based on the complexity of the extraction (simple vs. surgical). Many dental insurance plans cover part or all of the cost, especially if the extraction is medically necessary due to infection, trauma, or impacted teeth. Parkway Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center can provide an estimate and check your insurance benefits.
