Tooth Extractions
Professional tooth removal when repair is not possible
If your tooth is damaged or decayed and can't be repaired with a filling or crown, your dentist may decide to remove (extract) the tooth. While our primary goal is always to preserve your natural teeth, sometimes extraction is the best option for your overall oral health.
When your tooth can't be repaired, tooth removal may be the best option for you. We will talk through all the options available during your consultation and ensure you understand the procedure and what to expect.
Why Are Teeth Removed?
There are many reasons why you might need to have a tooth removed:
Severe Tooth Decay
When decay has progressed too far to be treated with a filling or root canal treatment.
Advanced Gum Disease
Periodontal disease can cause teeth to become loose and may require extraction.
Broken or Fractured Tooth
Teeth broken beyond repair due to trauma or accident.
Dental Abscess
Severe infection at the root of the tooth that cannot be treated with antibiotics alone.
Crowded Teeth
Sometimes teeth need to be removed to create space for orthodontic treatment.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth that don't have enough room to emerge or develop normally.
The Extraction Procedure
Before Your Extraction
We will explain how you can prepare for the procedure. We'll ask about your dental and medical history so be sure to let us know about any medical conditions, allergies or recent surgery, as well as any medicines you're currently taking.
We will put you at ease and will explain what will happen before, during and after the extraction. If you're unsure about anything, just ask. No question is too small and being fully informed will help you feel more at ease.
During the Procedure
Local Anaesthetic
The area around your tooth will be numbed with a local anaesthetic so you won't feel any pain, just some pressure during the extraction.
Tooth Removal
Your dentist will gently loosen the tooth and remove it. For more complex cases, a small incision may be made in your gum.
Post-Extraction Care
Once the tooth is removed, you'll bite down on a gauze pad to help stop any bleeding and promote clot formation.
Types of Extraction
Simple Extraction
Performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth. The dentist loosens the tooth with an instrument called an elevator, then removes it with dental forceps.
Recovery time: 3-5 days
Surgical Extraction
Required for teeth that haven't erupted through the gum or have broken off at the gum line. May require a small incision in the gum.
Recovery time: 7-10 days
Aftercare Instructions
What to Expect After Your Extraction
Following your tooth extraction, it's normal to experience some discomfort and swelling. Here's how to care for yourself:
First 24 Hours
Bite firmly on the gauze pad for 30-45 minutes. Apply ice packs to reduce swelling (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off).
Rest and Recovery
Take it easy for the first 24 hours. Avoid strenuous activity and keep your head elevated when lying down.
Diet
Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Avoid hot liquids, alcohol, and using straws as these can dislodge the blood clot.
Oral Hygiene
Don't rinse for 24 hours. After that, gently rinse with warm salt water several times a day. Continue to brush other teeth but avoid the extraction site.
Pain Management
Take pain relief as prescribed or recommended by your dentist. Most discomfort should subside within a few days.
When to Contact Us
Contact the practice immediately if you experience:
- •Severe pain that doesn't respond to pain relief
- •Bleeding that continues after 24 hours
- •Signs of infection (fever, excessive swelling, pus)
- •Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Tooth Replacement Options
After extraction, you may want to consider replacing the missing tooth to maintain proper bite alignment and prevent other teeth from shifting.
Dental Implants
A permanent solution that replaces both the tooth root and crown. Most natural-looking and functional option.
Learn more →