Tooth extraction

Simple Extractions are performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth, usually under local anaesthetic, and require only the use of instruments to elevate and grasps the visible portion of the tooth. Typically the tooth is lifted using an elevator and using dental forceps, rocked back and forth until the periodontal ligament has been sufficiently broken and the supporting alveolar bone has been adequately widened to make the tooth loose enough to remove. Typically , when teeth are removed with forceps, slow steady pressure is applied with controlled force.

Surgical Extractions involve the removal of teeth that cannot be easily accessed, either because they have broken under the gum line or because they have not erupted fully. Surgical extractions almost always require an incision. In a surgical extraction, the doctor may elevate the soft tissue covering the tooth and bone, and may also remove some of the overlying and surrounding jawbone tissue with a drill or by osteotomy. Frequently, the tooth may be split into multiple pieces to facilitate its removal. Surgical extractions are usually performed under a general anaesthetic.

Avoid anything that might prevent normal healing
Don’t smoke or rinse your mouth vigorously
Avoid drinking through a straw for 24 hours
Follow the diet your dentist suggests

Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on what to do and what to expect after surgery.

It is normal to feel some pain after the anaesthesia wears off. For 24 hrs. having a tooth pulled, you should expect some swelling and residual bleeding. However, if either bleeding-pain is still severe more than four hours after your tooth is pulled, you should call your dentist. You should call your dentist if you experience any of the following.

Signs of infection, including fever and chills
Nausea or vomiting
Redness, swelling or excessive discharge from the affected area
Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea– vomiting

The healing period usually takes about one to two weeks. New bone and gum tissue will grow into the gap. Over time, however, having tooth (or teeth) missing can cause the remaining teeth to shift affecting your bite and making it difficult to chew. For that reason, your dentist may advice replacing the missing tooth (or teeth) with implant, fixed bridge or denture.

Yes. You should expect to be sore for 2/3 days following an extraction. The dentist will have given you instructions to follow after having an extraction which will help with the pain but may not eliminate it.

Yes this can happen however it is not normal to still have bleeding 48/60 hours after an extraction. Please call your dentist should this happen.

No. You will need to be on a liquid/soft diet following an extraction. You can return to a normal diet after 2/3 days or when the area heals.

Yes! Please see our implants page.

This can be a sign of infection. Please call your dentist for advise as they may need to see you again and provide a prescription of antibiotics.