Dental Extractions

Tooth removal (extraction) is usually the last option. We will always try to save a tooth first.

Reasons for Removing Teeth

A tooth may need to be removed if:

It is fractured and cannot be repaired
It has severe decay and cannot be filled
It is loose because of gum (periodontal) disease and the bone support is lost
There is an abscess around the tooth
A wisdom tooth is impacted and keeps causing pain or infection
Space is needed to straighten teeth for orthodontic treatment

Before Your Extraction

Before we remove a tooth, we will:

Explain the procedure to you
Ask about your medical history
Ask about any past extractions or problems

The tooth will be numbed with a local anaesthetic. You should not feel pain, but you will feel pressure. Some people, especially children, find it hard to tell the difference between pressure and pain.

If you are very anxious, sedation may be helpful. We can arrange a referral for this.

During Tooth Removal

Once the area is numb, the dentist will:

Gently widen the bone (socket) around the tooth
Carefully remove the tooth
Sometimes place a small stitch to help healing (if needed)

After the tooth is removed:

The area may bleed for a few minutes
You will bite on a small piece of gauze to help stop the bleeding
The dentist will give you clear instructions on how to look after the area

Most extractions are straightforward and you will not need a follow-up visit. If the extraction is more complex, we will book a review appointment.

Aftercare and Healing

It is normal for the area (socket) to be sore for a few days. Most people can carry on with their usual daily activities.

Painkillers will be advised to help with discomfort
Follow all the aftercare instructions to avoid problems

If after 3 days there is no improvement, or the pain gets worse, it is important to have the area checked for infection.

If you have any concerns at all, please contact us.

Further Instructions

Please see HERE for more detailed instructions to follow after a tooth extraction.