Tooth Extraction

When a tooth is damaged beyond repair, extraction may be necessary.

Removing a tooth or teeth is often a last resort for dentists. Whenever extraction is required, our talented professionals work hard to make sure the patient is as comfortable as possible.

When is a tooth extraction necessary?

Extraction may be necessary if a tooth has decayed or been damaged beyond repair. Removing a damaged tooth can remedy pain for the patient while reducing the possibility of an infection developing.

Tooth extraction may also be necessary if a person’s mouth is ‘crowded’ and their ability to chew consequently inhibited.

What does tooth extraction involve?

A local anaesthetic is used to numb the affected area prior to extraction. This makes sure that the patient is comfortable throughout treatment. A dentist will then remove the damaged tooth from its socket, during a procedure that should take just a few minutes.

If a tooth has broken off below the gumline, your dentist may need to extract the tooth surgically. In this instance, a small incision will be made in the gum to allow the removal of the tooth.

Does tooth extraction hurt?

The use of local anaesthetic keeps the patient from experiencing pain during the procedure. Recovery may bring some discomfort, but this should be minimal and can be alleviated with over-the-counter medications.

How long before I can replace my extracted tooth with a dental prosthesis?

Patients who have a tooth extracted may opt to replace that tooth with a prosthesis, for example an implant or dentures. The extraction site may take some weeks to fully heal and your dentist will advise on when a prosthesis may subsequently be fitted.