Tooth extraction
We always try to save a tooth first. When that is not possible, removing it gently and caring for the socket properly makes recovery much easier.
A tooth may need to come out when
- It is too broken or decayed to be restored
- Gum disease has left it very loose
- A wisdom tooth is impacted and causing pain, swelling or infection
- It is needed for orthodontic treatment
What happens, step by step
- Examination and X-ray
We check the tooth and its roots, and ask about your health and any medicines, especially blood thinners.
- Numbing
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic.
- Removal
A simple extraction loosens and lifts the tooth out. An impacted tooth may need a small cut in the gum, and sometimes the tooth is removed in pieces.
- Stitches and gauze
Stitches may be placed. You will bite on gauze to help a blood clot form.
How many visits? Usually a single visit, with a review if stitches were placed.
Afterwards
- Keep firm pressure on the gauze for the time we advise.
- For the first 24 hours, do not rinse vigorously, spit forcefully or use a straw. These can dislodge the clot.
- Do not smoke.
- Eat soft, cool food and chew on the other side.
- After the first day, gentle warm salt-water rinses help keep the area clean.
- Severe pain that starts a few days later can mean a dry socket. Come back so we can treat it.
When to get help quickly. Bleeding that will not stop after an hour of firm pressure, swelling that keeps increasing, or fever: call us straight away.
Doctors who provide tooth extraction
Questions about tooth extraction
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. Wisdom teeth that are healthy and causing no problems can usually stay. We advise removal when one is causing pain, infection or damage to the next tooth.
I take blood thinners or have diabetes. Can I still have a tooth out?
Usually yes, with planning. Tell us about every medicine and condition beforehand, and do not stop any medicine without your doctor’s advice.
What can replace the tooth afterwards?
An implant, a bridge or a partial denture. We can talk through the options before the extraction.
Clinical content reviewed by Dr. Navin Sah. This page explains the treatment in general terms. Your own plan is decided after an examination.
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