Tooth Extraction

When a tooth is broken, severely decayed or too damaged to be restored, a tooth extraction may be necessary.

What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is a relatively routine procedure, generally performed under local anaesthetic.

When a tooth is too severely damaged or decayed to be saved, an extraction is required. Wisdom teeth that cause pain, discomfort or affect adjoining teeth may also need to be extracted.

If the tooth is above the gum line, your dentist will use special instruments to loosen and then take out the tooth. For wisdom teeth or teeth that are broken below the gum line, an incision in the gum is made to be able to extract the tooth at the root. The gum will then be sutured to aid healing.

At Springburn Dental Care, we specialise in oral surgery and difficult extractions. We are able to offer sedation if appropriate, so you are in expert hands should you require an extraction.

After the extraction

Following an extraction, your dentist will make sure that the healing process begins normally.

Some bleeding is normal but a blood clot should start to form in the gum at the extraction point. It is important not to dislodge the blood clot if possible at all possible.

Your mouth may temporarily feel a little sore once the anaesthetic wears off, but this should only last for a day or two. Swelling can be reduced by using an icepack for periods of around 10 minutes.

For the first day or two following your extraction, it is advisable to avoid drinking hot drinks, smoking, using mouthwash or brushing the extraction site.