A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. It’s performed for a wide variety of reasons:

  • Tooth decay — if decay is severely advanced and the nerve and blood supply are infected beyond saving with root canal treatment.
  • Impacted wisdom teeth — sometimes there simply isn’t room, and the tooth becomes stuck, causing pain or infection.
  • Orthodontics — to make space so the remaining teeth can be brought into proper alignment.
  • Periodontal disease — once the bone and tissue anchoring a tooth have broken down, the tooth becomes loose and unable to be saved.
  • Trauma — teeth damaged beyond repair.
  • Certain medical conditions that require a tooth to be removed.

Your dentist will examine the tooth and explain exactly why extraction is the right option for you. An X-ray is taken to plan the safest way to remove the tooth and check for any abscess — if one is present, you’ll be given a course of antibiotics before the extraction goes ahead.

You’ll also be asked about your medical history, including any medication you’re taking, even over-the-counter products, as some can affect the procedure. If you’re at all anxious, tell us — we offer nitrous oxide and IV sedation in-house, and your dentist will take the time to talk you through what to expect and put you at ease before starting.

How the extraction is carried out

There are two types:

Simple extraction — used when the tooth is fully visible. A local anaesthetic numbs the area, and once you’re numb, your dentist loosens and removes the tooth. You’ll feel pressure, but no sharp pain.

Surgical extraction — used for teeth that are below the gum, partially erupted, or broken at gum level. After numbing the area, a small incision is made to access the tooth or root, which is then removed in the same way as a simple extraction, sometimes in sections if needed.

Throughout the procedure, we check in with you regularly. If you feel any pain at all, we stop immediately — pressure is normal, but you should never feel sharp pain. Once the tooth is out, a swab is placed over the site and you’ll be asked to bite down until a blood clot forms.

Replacing the tooth

If the extracted tooth won’t be replaced through orthodontic movement, it’s worth discussing your options for filling the gap — a dental implant or bridge can restore both function and appearance. Your dentist can talk you through what’s suitable during your consultation.

Aftercare

  • A blood clot forms in the socket and is essential to healing — avoid disturbing it with vigorous rinsing, or poking it with your tongue or finger.
  • If bleeding starts again after you’ve left, bite down on a gauze, clean tissue or handkerchief over the site for a 10 minutes firmly without talking. Contact us if it doesn’t settle.
  • Your mouth may stay numb for an hour or so — take care not to bite your cheek or tongue, or burn yourself on hot drinks.
  • Avoid smoking and alcohol for 24 hours, as both can affect healing.
  • For discomfort once the anaesthetic wears off, paracetamol following the pack instructions is fine. Avoid aspirin, as it can increase bleeding at the site.

These are general guidelines — you’ll be given a full, individual post-operative instruction sheet at your review appointment the next day.