Our first instinct is always to save the tooth. But sometimes a tooth is too decayed, too fractured or too loose to be restored, and removing it is the best decision for your health.
If that's the case, we explain why, how it will go, and what the options are for replacing the tooth afterwards. The extraction itself is done under local anaesthesia, and most patients are surprised by how straightforward it is.
When is an extraction needed?
- Decay or a fracture too extensive for a filling, a crown or a root canal
- An infection that isn't responding to treatment
- A tooth loosened by advanced gum disease
- A baby tooth that won't fall out and is blocking the adult tooth
- Making room before orthodontic treatment
What to expect
- Step 1
Assessment
An exam and an X-ray show the root, the bone and the nearby structures. We review your health and medications, and answer your questions.
- Step 2
Numbing
The area is fully numbed. We wait until the anaesthesia has taken full effect before starting — you should feel pressure only.
- Step 3
Extraction
The dentist gently loosens the tooth and removes it. Most of the time, it takes a few minutes. If the tooth is brittle or the root curved, it may be removed in sections.
- Step 4
Instructions and follow-up
We place gauze, give you written instructions and, if you wish, plan how the tooth will be replaced.
What it changes
- The infection and the pain are removed at the source
- The neighbouring teeth and bone are protected
- Healing that usually takes one to two weeks
- A clear plan to replace the tooth, if needed
Frequently asked questions
Bite on the gauze for 30 to 45 minutes to stop the bleeding. Don't spit, drink through a straw, smoke or rinse vigorously: these can dislodge the clot that protects the socket. Eat soft, lukewarm food on the other side. Apply ice 15 minutes at a time for swelling. Avoid strenuous activity and keep your head raised when you sleep.
During the extraction, no: the area is numb and you feel pressure only. Afterwards, some discomfort for two to three days is normal and manageable with the pain relievers the dentist recommends. If the pain gets worse after day three instead of better, call us.
It's what happens when the clot comes out too early and leaves the bone exposed. It shows up as sharp pain two to four days after the extraction. It isn't dangerous, but it's very uncomfortable: call us, and a soothing dressing placed at the clinic brings relief quickly. Following the instructions for the first few days greatly lowers the risk.
Not always — a wisdom tooth, for example, doesn't need replacing. For other teeth, leaving a gap can let the neighbouring teeth drift and affect chewing. A bridge, an implant or a partial denture are the usual options. We discuss them before the extraction, with no obligation.