How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Take to Do?

You're about to have a tooth extracted, and you probably want to know one thing: how long does a tooth extraction take to do? It's a perfectly normal question and one that we get a lot at Salt Creek Family Dental. After all, you likely have places to be and things to do. 

Wondering about the typical tooth extraction duration before scheduling an appointment? We'll break down the factors that affect the duration of tooth extractions for you to get a clearer picture.

Duration of a Tooth Extraction

How long does a tooth extraction take to do? While the total appointment time can vary, it usually takes 20 to 40 minutes to extract one tooth. But many factors affect this timeframe, from the type of extraction to the complexity of your case. 

Factors That Influence Tooth Extraction Duration

While it takes approximately less than an hour for a tooth extraction, some factors could still affect how long your tooth extraction will take to complete. So, how long does a tooth extraction take to do, really?

Tooth Condition

A severely decayed or broken tooth usually requires more time to extract. Similarly, a tooth with curved roots or an impacted wisdom tooth adds more time to the extraction process. These circumstances demand a careful approach to prevent complications. For example, a severely decayed tooth may crumble easily, requiring the dentist to remove it in pieces.

Inflammation can also cause the tissues around the tooth to be swollen and sensitive, making it more difficult to access and extract the tooth. The dentist may need to take extra care to alleviate the inflammation before and during the extraction, which can extend the procedure time.

Number of Teeth

It's pretty straightforward: more teeth being extracted equals more time in the dental chair. Each additional tooth can add another 3 to 15 minutes to your total extraction time. So, whether you're having a single tooth extracted or a more extensive procedure, be prepared for varying durations depending on the number of teeth involved.

Anesthesia

The choice of anesthesia for a tooth extraction procedure can significantly impact the duration of the process. Local anesthesia, commonly used for routine extractions, involves numbing the area near the extraction site, allowing the patient to remain awake throughout. 

Sedation, used for more complex extractions or anxious patients, ranges from minimal to deep, potentially adding time to the procedure due to administration and monitoring. 

General anesthesia, employed for extensive surgical procedures or specific medical conditions, induces unconsciousness, requiring extra precautions and monitoring that can prolong the extraction process. 

Your Oral Health

Patients with good overall oral health tend to experience quicker extractions and shorter healing times. Underlying health conditions or dental anxieties might call for additional precautions or considerations, such as adjustments to the anesthesia or pain management plan. 

Open communication with your dentist or oral surgeon is necessary. They'll guide you and alleviate any anxieties you may have about your tooth extraction appointment.

Will It Hurt?

During a tooth extraction, you should not feel pain due to the administration of local anesthesia. The area around the tooth being extracted will be numbed. This helps to ensure that you do not experience pain during the procedure.

While you may feel pressure or some sensations during the extraction process, any discomfort should be manageable and not exceed the sensation of pressure. If you do feel pain during the extraction, inform your dentist immediately so that they can address the issue and ensure your comfort during the procedure.

After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some discomfort or soreness at the extraction site, which is normal. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain medications to help manage any post-extraction pain.

Once your tooth extraction is done, make sure to bring a friend or a relative with you to drive you home. Driving yourself home is not safe after undergoing a procedure with anesthesia.

After the Tooth Extraction: Blood Clot and Swelling

A blood clot will develop at the extraction site within the initial 24 hours. This clot initiates the healing process within your body. Swelling is a common side effect and typically peaks within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. This swelling occurs as a natural response of the body to the trauma of the extraction. 

To help alleviate swelling, the dentist may recommend applying an ice pack to the outside of the affected area intermittently during the first 24 hours and then switching to warm compresses after that. 

You may also take any prescribed anti-inflammatory medication and follow post-operative care instructions, such as avoiding vigorous rinsing or drinking through a straw, to help manage swelling. However, if swelling continues to increase or persists beyond a few days, contact the dentist to ensure proper healing and rule out any complications.

When to Resume Physical Activity

According to experts, it is recommended to wait for one week before resuming your normal physical activity after a tooth extraction. Engaging in physical activity too soon after the procedure can lead to complications such as dislodged blood clots, dry sockets, and unexpected injuries. 

Make sure to prioritize rest and allow your body to heal properly before gradually returning to exercise.

Undergo a Tooth Extraction Today

So, how long does a tooth extraction take to do? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Generally, most simple tooth extractions can be completed in 20 to 40 minutes. Still, a lot depends on factors unique to each person's situation, such as the complexity of the extraction. 

Salt Creek Family Dental is a top-rated, family-owned dental clinic in Hinsdale, IL, dedicated to providing exceptional service to patients of all ages, from pediatrics to seniors. Keeping patient care is our top priority, and we maintain a commitment to ensuring healthy smiles and happy lives for all our patients.

If you are considering a tooth extraction, Salt Creek Family Dental provides comprehensive dental services, including tooth extractions in Hinsdale, Illinois. We are conveniently located in Hinsdale, just off Ogden Ave and near the Salt Creek preserve, proudly serving patients in Hinsdale, Oakbrook, La Grange, Western Springs, and surrounding communities. 

Learn more about our tooth extraction services. Feel free to call us at (630) 323-0060 or contact us to schedule an appointment today.