Having a tooth pulled isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time, but sometimes it’s necessary. Whether it’s due to damage, decay, or an impacted wisdom tooth, tooth extractions are pretty common.
So, how long does it take to extract a molar? This article will give you a general idea of what to expect during the process.
Keep in mind that the type of tooth, the anesthesia used, and how well you follow pre- and post-extraction instructions can affect the overall time. Your dentist can give you a more specific estimate based on your individual situation.
Reasons for Molar Extractions
Dentists usually prefer to save teeth if they can. But sometimes, taking a tooth out is the only real option.
Here are a few reasons why a dentist might recommend extracting a molar:
- Dental trauma. If you get hit in the mouth, a molar might be damaged so badly that it can’t be repaired.
- Tooth disease. Severe tooth decay or infection can make it necessary to pull the tooth.
- Dental crowding. Sometimes, your mouth is just too crowded for all your teeth. Wisdom teeth, especially, can cause crowding. Your dentist might recommend taking a molar out to improve your overall dental health and alignment.
Simple vs. surgical molar extractions
When you need to have a molar extracted, it will typically be done in one of two ways: a simple extraction or a surgical extraction.
Simple extraction
A simple extraction is usually performed on a molar that’s visible in your mouth and hasn’t broken off at the gum line. In this procedure, the dentist will use an elevator (a dental tool) to loosen the tooth. Then, they’ll use forceps to remove it.
Surgical extraction
If your molar is impacted (stuck below the gum line) or broken, you’ll likely need to have a surgical extraction. In this procedure, the dentist will make a small cut in your gum tissue and remove some bone to get to the tooth. They may need to cut the tooth into sections to make it easier to remove.
The molar extraction process: a step-by-step guide
Here’s what you can expect when you go in for a molar extraction.
Numbing the tooth
First, the dentist will inject a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. In some situations, such as when a tooth is impacted or when multiple teeth are being extracted, a general anesthetic may be used. Either way, the anesthetic needs time to work, usually anywhere from five minutes to half an hour.
Extraction of the tooth
Using specialized instruments, the dentist will gently loosen the tooth and then remove it from the socket. Because of the anesthetic, you shouldn’t feel any pain during this part of the procedure, although you can expect to hear loud noises and feel some pressure as the dentist works. This usually takes from 10 to 30 minutes.
Closing the space
Once the tooth is out, the dentist will clean and prepare the socket. In some cases, they’ll use sutures to close the gum tissue. This also takes from 10 to 30 minutes.
Finishing up
The dentist or assistant will place gauze in the space where your tooth used to be to control the bleeding. They’ll also provide you with detailed post-extraction instructions. This final stage can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.
How Long Does a Molar Extraction Take? Factors Influencing the Timeline
There’s no one quick answer to the question of how long a molar extraction will take. The time can vary quite a bit depending on several factors.
Here are some of the things that can affect how long it takes to pull a molar:
Type of Molar Being Pulled
Different molars have different sizes, root structures, and locations in your mouth. All of these things can make one tooth easier or harder to extract than another.
Complexity of the Extraction
A simple extraction, where the tooth is easily accessible, will always take less time than a surgical extraction, where the dentist has to cut into the gums or bone.
Impaction
Impacted molars, especially wisdom teeth, are more difficult to remove and will require a surgical approach. This adds to the overall time needed.
Anesthetic Effectiveness
It takes a little while for the anesthetic to fully numb the area around the tooth. In some cases, you may need an additional dose of anesthetic during the procedure to keep you comfortable, and that can add to the time needed.
Pre-Existing Conditions
If you have severe gum disease, bone density issues, or other pre-existing conditions, that can make the extraction more complicated and increase the time it takes.
Patient Anxiety
If you’re feeling anxious or nervous, it can affect the procedure. Your dentist and dental hygienist will do everything they can to help you feel comfortable.
Number of Teeth Extracted
Obviously, if you’re having more than one tooth pulled during the same appointment, it will take longer. Expect each additional tooth to add somewhere around five to fifteen minutes to the total time.
Preparing for Your Molar Extraction: Planning and Considerations
Even though the extraction itself might only take an hour or so, it’s important to plan ahead before you have a molar pulled.
Scheduling and Time Off
Give yourself a full day to relax and recover. It’s also a good idea to plan for a potential day or two away from work or school after the extraction.
Managing Anxiety
Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety. Ask your dentist to walk you through the procedure step by step. Some people find that bringing headphones and listening to music during the procedure helps distract them from the noises and sensations.
Communication with Your Dentist
If you have special needs or concerns, be sure to talk with your dentist about them before the extraction. They can make accommodations to ensure your comfort and safety.
Post-Extraction Care and Recovery
After your molar is extracted, your dentist will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions. It’s vital to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Pain Management: You can manage pain with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or with prescription pain medication, if your dentist deems it necessary.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and soup for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the extraction site.
- Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to keep the area clean. Don’t smoke or drink through a straw for at least 24 hours, as this can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a painful dry socket.
- Monitoring for Complications: Keep an eye out for excessive bleeding, swelling, or signs of infection (like pus or increased pain). Contact your dentist immediately if you experience any of these issues.
The healing time varies depending on the type of extraction. Simple extractions may heal in a few days to a few weeks, while surgical extractions can take a few months to fully heal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to pull a molar tooth out?
The time it takes to extract a molar can vary wildly depending on a few things. A straightforward extraction, where the tooth is fully erupted and easily accessible, might only take 20-40 minutes. However, if the molar is impacted, broken below the gumline, or has curved roots, the procedure will take longer, potentially an hour or more. The dentist’s experience and the tools they use also play a role.
Is a molar hard to extract?
Molars can be more challenging to extract than other teeth for a few reasons. They’re larger, have multiple roots (making them more anchored in the jawbone), and are located further back in the mouth, which can make access difficult. Impaction, where the tooth is stuck beneath the gumline or bone, also significantly increases the complexity of the extraction. Your dentist will assess the specific situation and determine the best approach to minimize any potential complications.
In Conclusion
As you’ve seen, there’s no single answer to the question, “How long does it take to extract a molar?” It all depends on the specific molar, the state of your oral health, and other factors.
For a personalized assessment and treatment plan, it’s essential to consult with a qualified dentist or oral surgeon. Talk to them about any worries or questions you may have, and be sure to follow their instructions for pre-op and post-op care.
Working with your dentist, you can ensure a smooth and successful molar extraction.