Tooth extractions

A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth which is negatively impacting oral health.

A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure and involves having one or more teeth removed, including the removal of wisdom teeth.

Reasons for tooth extraction usually include:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease (periodontal disease)
• A broken tooth that can’t be repaired
• An abscess (a collection of pus) on your gums or around your teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Impacted wisdom teeth

Depending on your case your teeth may be removed in a single appointment or over a few appointments.

Tooth extraction process

At the beginning of the appointment your dentist will administer a local anaesthetic. Sedation may be used if there are multiple teeth being removed, or if a tooth is severely impacted.

Your dentist will remove the problem tooth or teeth. You may feel some discomfort as the tooth is removed and during the healing phase.

Once a tooth is removed you have the option of accepting the space or closing it by means of a denture, dental bridge or dental implant.

Tooth extraction benefits

• Ease pain caused by infection, decay or gum disease
• In the case of overcrowding you may need teeth removed as part of orthodontic treatment
• In the case of decay or infection, eating will be easier as you will not be pressing on painful areas of the mouth

Tooth extraction FAQs

• Will an extraction hurt?

  Depending on the tooth or teeth being extracted, your dentist will use local anaesthetic or sedation, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. The area may be sensitive in the following days, but will heal quickly, allowing you to eat and drink as normal.

• What should I do following the extraction?

  Immediately after treatment the anaesthetic will mask pain, therefore avoid hot food and drinks to prevent burning yourself. In the evenings you may like to elevate yourself with an extra pillow as you sleep. Finally, don’t rinse the area to allow the blood to properly clot.

• What are the alternatives to tooth extraction?

  In some cases, where the tooth has become infected, root canal treatment may be offered which will save the tooth, and replace the dental pulp with a filling. Our dentists will advise you of the most appropriate option.