One of the most common dental procedures is tooth extraction. However, many patients feel anxious, especially when thinking about the duration of the procedure. However, knowing about the timing of tooth extraction can help patients plan their day and set realistic expectations for recovery.
The duration of a tooth extraction can vary depending on different factors. In this blog, we learn about the average timing of the procedure and what factors can affect the duration. So, let’s begin!
What Is Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is a dental procedure where dental experts remove the tooth from its socket in the jawbone. There are several reasons why a dentist can perform an extraction, such as infection, crowding, trauma, or for orthodontic treatment.
The two main types of tooth extraction procedures are:
- Simple Extraction: This procedure is done under local anesthesia, and it is quicker and less invasive.
- Surgical Extraction: Dentists perform surgical extraction on impacted or broken teeth. This procedure may also involve removing the bone around the tooth, and patients may require stitches.
Average Time for a Tooth Extraction
The duration of a tooth removal procedure can vary depending on the type of extraction and the complexity of the case. From the moment you walk into the clinic, to filling out the paper work, and getting injected with local anesthesia (10-15 min for anesthetic onset) and get the extraction done, here are the average durations for the different procedures:
- Simple Extraction – The extraction procedure usually takes 20-40 minutes, and it is done on teeth that are fully visible and easy to access.
- Surgical Extraction – This can take 45 minutes to over an hour. Because it involves the extraction of broken teeth or teeth below the gum line, the patients may also receive stitches or bone removal.
- Wisdom Tooth Extraction – The extraction of an impacted wisdom tooth may take 30-60 minutes or longer if the situation is complex due to the position of the tooth. The removal of all four wisdom teeth can take 120 minutes or more.
Factors That Affect the Duration of Tooth Removal Procedure
Here are some common factors that can influence the duration of a tooth extraction procedure:
Type of Tooth:
The extraction of front teeth is usually easier because of their simple root structure and accessibility. However, molars, especially third molars, have multiple roots, which makes it harder to extract.
Complexity:
A simple extraction procedure requires less time. However, a surgical extraction involves incision and stitches, which can take longer.
Patient’s Oral Health:
Oral conditions like gum disease, infection, or having a dense or thick cortical bone can increase resistance and procedure time. Also, if teeth are broken or have curved roots, then dentists require extra time.
Patient’s Cooperation:
A calm patient allows the dentist to perform the procedure smoothly. Patients with dental anxiety, on the other hand, may benefit from additional comfort measures or sedation, which can extend appointment time.
Note that bleeding, swelling, and 24–72 hours of healing are normal.
Final Thoughts
Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that, in most cases, does not take long. While many extractions are brief, some complex cases require more time and careful surgical management.
At Integrity Dental of Troy, our dental professionals assess your oral health and give you the right estimate, and to make sure you have a comfortable recovery. Call us at (586) 977-0300 to schedule your appointment!