Pulling a tooth at home might seem like a quick and easy solution, especially when dealing with a loose tooth or facing dental costs. But before you grab the pliers, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved.
Ideally, any tooth extraction should be performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. They have the expertise and tools to ensure the procedure is done safely and minimizes the risk of complications.
That said, if you’re determined to learn how to pull tooth at home, this guide provides information on the process, including how to prepare, the actual extraction, aftercare, and possible complications. However, it is strongly recommended to consult with a dental professional first.
Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding your dental health.
When is tooth extraction necessary?
There are a number of reasons why a dentist might recommend extracting a tooth. Sometimes it’s the only way to protect your oral health.
Medical reasons for extraction
- Severe tooth decay. If a cavity has eaten away a large portion of your tooth, extraction may be the only option.
- Tooth infection. If an infection is severe and doesn’t respond to antibiotics or a root canal, extraction may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.
- Gum disease. Advanced gum disease can loosen teeth to the point where they can’t be saved.
Other reasons for extraction
- Overcrowding. If your mouth is too small to accommodate all your teeth, a dentist may recommend extracting one or more teeth to make room for orthodontic treatment.
- Impacted teeth. Wisdom teeth, in particular, are often impacted, meaning they’re trapped beneath the gumline. Impacted teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth.
- Fractured teeth. If a tooth is severely fractured and can’t be repaired with a filling or crown, extraction may be the only option.
- Injury. Teeth that are damaged beyond repair due to trauma may also need to be extracted.
Should you try to pull your own tooth?
Before you even think about trying to pull your own tooth, let’s consider whether it’s the right move for you. Here’s a checklist:
- How loose is the tooth? Only consider DIY extraction if the tooth is extremely loose. We’re talking barely hanging on.
- How much pain are you in? Can you manage the pain with over-the-counter meds? If the pain is severe, see a dentist.
- Are you healthy? If you have any underlying health conditions (like bleeding disorders or a weakened immune system), DO NOT try this. Tell your dentist about your health and any medications you take.
- Do you know the risks? Are you aware of the possible complications if you try to pull your own tooth?
- Have you tried everything else? Have you looked into fillings, root canals, or crowns?
Seriously, talk to a dentist. Get a professional opinion before you decide to go all-in on a DIY tooth extraction.
Preparing for at-home tooth extraction
If you’re certain you want to try pulling a tooth at home, preparation is key. Here’s a rundown of how to get ready.
Gathering supplies
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sterile gauze to control any bleeding
- A topical anesthetic to numb the area
- OTC pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Antiseptic mouthwash to clean your mouth before and after
- Sterile tweezers or a hemostat to grasp the tooth (use these with extreme caution and only if needed). Sanitize any tools before you begin.
- Clean water for rinsing
- A small bowl to spit into
- Good lighting so you can see what you’re doing
Preparing yourself
- Clean your mouth well.
- Numb the area with a topical gel or oral pain reliever.
- Understand exactly what you’re going to do and the risks involved.
- Have a plan for aftercare.
Creating a sterile environment
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Sanitize all tools with rubbing alcohol or boiling water.
- Work in a clean and well-lit space.
Having all your ducks in a row can help you stay calm and focused as you proceed.
How to pull a tooth at home (proceed with extreme caution)
WARNING: I cannot stress enough that you should see a dentist for a tooth extraction. This section is here for informational purposes ONLY. If you choose to pull your own tooth, you do so at your own risk.
- Numb the area. Use a topical anesthetic gel around the tooth and gums. Give it the amount of time recommended on the package to work. If you’re taking oral pain relievers, take them as directed before you start.
- Gently loosen the tooth. Use your fingers to gently rock the tooth back and forth. Don’t twist it or use a lot of force. You just want to slowly loosen the ligaments that hold the tooth in place.
- Remove the tooth. When the tooth feels very loose, gently pull it straight out. If it doesn’t come out easily, stop and try loosening it more. Never yank it, as that can cause a lot of pain and other problems.
- Stop the bleeding. Right after the tooth comes out, bite down hard on a sterile gauze pad. Keep the pressure on it for at least 30 minutes, or until the bleeding stops. If it doesn’t stop, replace the gauze and keep applying pressure.
- Inspect the socket. Look at the hole left by the tooth to make sure there aren’t any pieces of tooth still in there. If you think there are, go to a dentist immediately.
After you pull the tooth
So, you got the tooth out. Great! Now you have to take care of the hole you just made in your mouth.
Here’s what you should do:
- For pain: Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You can also put an ice pack on your cheek to help with swelling.
- To prevent infection: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water two or three times a day. Try not to poke at the extraction site with your fingers or tongue.
- What to eat: Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Avoid anything hard, crunchy, or chewy that could irritate the area.
- Oral hygiene: Keep brushing your teeth, but be careful around the extraction site. Don’t use a straw or spit forcefully, because that could dislodge the blood clot that’s forming.
- Rest: Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours.
Potential Risks and Complications of DIY Extraction
While some people may feel they have no other option than to attempt a DIY tooth extraction, it’s important to understand the potential risks involved. It’s always best to consult with a dentist if possible.
Common Complications
- Excessive Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal, but if it doesn’t stop after applying pressure for 30 minutes, it’s time to seek professional help.
- Infection: Watch for signs like increased pain, swelling, redness, pus, or fever. These are all indicators of a possible infection.
- Dry Socket: This occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket dislodges, exposing the bone and nerves. It can be very painful.
- Tissue Damage: You could unintentionally damage the surrounding gums or bone during the extraction process.
Serious Complications
- Nerve Damage: This can result in numbness or tingling in your lip, tongue, or chin.
- Retained Tooth Fragments: If pieces of the tooth remain in the socket, they can cause infection and inflammation.
- Severe Pain: Uncontrolled pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers is a serious concern.
When to Seek Immediate Professional Help
If you experience any of the following after attempting a DIY tooth extraction, seek immediate professional help:
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Signs of infection
- Severe pain
- Suspected nerve damage
- Retained tooth fragments
To Conclude
Pulling your own tooth at home carries real risks. You could end up with an infection, excessive bleeding, or damage to the surrounding teeth or gums.
For safe and effective tooth extraction, it’s always best to see a dentist. They can numb the area with a local anesthetic, use sterile instruments, and provide proper aftercare instructions. Plus, they’re prepared to handle any complications that might arise.
The only time you might consider pulling a tooth yourself is in an extreme situation where you absolutely cannot get to a dentist. But even then, it’s a gamble.
Ultimately, your oral health and safety should be your top priority. If you need a tooth extracted, please, seek professional dental care. It’s the safest and most effective way to go.