Pain Management and Anesthesia Options
Comfortable, Pain-Free Extractions at Newtown Dental

For most extractions, local anesthesia is used to numb the area around the tooth being removed. This ensures that you won’t feel any pain during the procedure, although you may feel some pressure or movement. Local anesthesia is applied directly to the gums, and it takes effect quickly.

How it Works:

The dentist will inject a local anesthetic (such as lidocaine) into the area around the tooth. Within minutes, the area will be fully numb, and you won’t feel any pain during the extraction.

Duration:

The effects of local anesthesia typically last a few hours after the procedure, so you may experience some numbness in your mouth after you leave the clinic. Once the anesthesia wears off, you may begin to feel some mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

For patients who feel anxious about their extraction or simply want a more relaxed experience, we offer nitrous oxide sedation, also known as laughing gas. This mild sedative helps you feel calm and comfortable while remaining awake and responsive during the procedure.

How it Works:

Nitrous oxide is administered through a small mask placed over your nose. As you inhale, you’ll begin to feel relaxed and calm within a few minutes. The effects wear off quickly after the procedure, allowing you to resume normal activities shortly after your visit.

Advantages:

• Fast-acting relaxation.
• Minimal side effects.
• Quick recovery, allowing you to drive yourself home after the procedure.

For more complex extractions or for patients with significant dental anxiety, we offer IV sedation, which provides a deeper level of relaxation. IV sedation allows you to remain awake but deeply relaxed, and many patients have little to no memory of the procedure afterward.

How it Works:

IV sedation is administered through a vein in your arm, and the effects take hold almost immediately. Throughout the procedure, we’ll monitor your vital signs to ensure your safety and adjust the sedation level as needed to keep you comfortable.

Advantages:

• Deep relaxation, making you feel calm and disconnected from the procedure.
• Ideal for complex extractions or multiple extractions.
• Little to no memory of the procedure.

Post-Procedure:

Because IV sedation has lingering effects, you’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. You may feel drowsy for a few hours as the sedation wears off.

After your extraction, some mild discomfort or swelling is normal as your mouth begins to heal. We’ll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to manage any pain and ensure a smooth recovery. Here are a few ways to manage pain and promote healing after an extraction:

• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
  Non-prescription pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are typically enough to manage post-extraction discomfort. These medications also help reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Ice Packs
  Applying ice packs to the outside of your cheek for the first 24 hours can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing additional relief.
• Soft Foods and Gentle Care
  Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes for the first few days after your extraction to avoid irritating the extraction site. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the area clean without disrupting the healing process.
• Avoid Straws and Smoking
  For the first 48 hours, avoid using straws or smoking, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket, a painful condition that can delay healing.

If you experience excessive pain, prolonged swelling, or signs of infection after your extraction, contact our clinic immediately for further evaluation and care.