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Tooth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from inside your mouth. This may be necessary if your dentist can’t repair the damage to your tooth or if there is extensive decay, infection, or tooth mobility. Teeth may also be removed to relieve crowding.
What is tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction, as the name suggests, is the process of removing a tooth - with a surgical procedure either done in the clinic or referral to a specialist in a hospital.
At Maven Dental, we consider your overall wellness and examine your mouth to determine the best treatment for your overall health. Your dentist or specialist will advise if a tooth needs to be removed. Read on to learn more about the tooth extraction process and preparing for your appointment.
When is a tooth extraction necessary?
When a tooth is damaged, your dentist will aim to treat and save it by using treatment options such as root canal treatment, crowns, or fillings, however this is not always the best option. In some situations, a tooth extraction may be necessary for several reasons, including:
• If your dentist can’t repair damage to your tooth using root canals, crowns, or fillings
• If the tooth has an internal crack or fracture that cannot be repaired
• If there is extensive decay, infection, or tooth mobility.
• Your tooth is badly damaged
• If you have crowding in your mouth
• An extraction is deemed the best option to maintain your oral health
What about wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are notorious for causing problems in the mouth by growing in a way that causes impaction of other teeth, and for causing extensive pain. This can cause damage to the surrounding teeth and lead to decay or infection. Wisdom tooth removal can be a bit different to a regular tooth extraction due to their position in the mouth, and often the awkward way they grow.
Learn more about wisdom tooth removal.
Preparing for your tooth extraction
Tooth extraction appointments
At the consultation, your Maven dentist will listen to your concerns, examine your teeth and discuss the options with you.
After assessment, should you need your tooth (or teeth) removed, additional appointments will be made as appropriate.
You should expect to be booked in for at least two appointments for a tooth extraction. If you're in pain though, immediate treatment may be necessary.
How long does a tooth extraction take?
Usually, the appointment will take around 30 to 60 minutes. However, this depends on the number of teeth that need to be removed, your medical history, and your personal circumstances.
You may be asked about
- Your dental and medical history
- Your symptoms
- Your requirement for sedation or GA
- Your normal oral care routine at home
- Whether you would like the tooth replaced
What do I need to prepare?
For the consultation, there is no special preparation needed.
Before the removal procedure, your Maven dentist will advise you of any pre-procedure requirements, including:
- pre-procedure medication (as prescribed);
- having someone accompany you to drive you to and from your appointment;
- making sure you have something to eat before the procedure (except if you are having sedation); and
- buying some over-the-counter painkillers for when you get home.
Do's and don'ts after a tooth extraction
Your dentist will provide home care instructions to ensure a fast recovery from your tooth extraction. Some Do’s and Don’ts to follow during your healing include:
Do:
- Use an ice pack to reduce swelling during the first 48 hours
- Eat a soft food diet (like mashed potato or ice cream)
- Use warm saltwater mouthwashes starting the day after surgery
- Be careful with hot food and drinks
- Rest for a few days after surgery
- Take painkillers as instructed by your dentist
Don’t:
- Smoke (for as long as possible after surgery, ideally three days)
- Eat hard, crunchy foods
- Rinse, spit or use a straw (this can dislodge the blood clot in the space where your tooth was removed)
After tooth removal, it is normal to experience some swelling and discomfort. We recommend allowing yourself a few days to rest at home post-procedure.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek advice from an appropriately qualified health practitioner
FAQs
The cost of a tooth extraction/teeth removal can vary depending on the procedure necessary. Contact your local Maven Dental practice to book a consultation; your dentist will be able to assess your teeth and give you an estimate of the cost of removal.
Your dentist will assess the procedure and discuss your best options for treatment to minimise pain felt during your tooth extraction. This will involve a local anaesthetic to numb the area. However, it may also include different sedation options to help you feel more relaxed during the procedure.
Like most oral health-related issues, tooth extraction or removal can usually be prevented with a good oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day and regular visits to the dentist. Some situations, such as wisdom tooth removal, cannot be prevented.
A dry socket is a complication of a tooth extraction where the blood clot that forms in the socket after the tooth was removed becomes dislodged, leaving the bone and nerve exposed - this can cause severe pain and lead to infection. Symptoms with a dry socket may include:
- Severe pain within two to four days after your extraction
- Fever
- Bad breath
- A bad taste in your mouth
- Visibly seeing the exposed bone instead of a blood clot
To prevent a dry socket, follow your dentist’s instructions after your procedure.
After your tooth extraction, you should eat a soft food diet to give your mouth time to heal. Some foods you might like to eat while your mouth is healing include:
- Mashed potato
- Soup (warm, not hot)
- Yoghurt and ice cream
- Oatmeal or porridge
- Cottage cheese
- Milkshakes
Ensuring you get enough nutrients and protein in your diet will help speed up the healing time and get you back to your normal diet quicker.