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Surgical Extraction



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Tooth Removal

Tooth Extraction is a more complex procedure, which is used if a tooth may have broken off at the gum line or has not erupted in the mouth properly.

The oral surgeon makes a small incision into your gum and then surgically removes the broken tooth or impacted wisdom tooth.

Tooth Removal Procedure

Tooth removal is usually relatively straightforward, the vast majority are normally performed quickly while you are awake by using local anaesthetic injections to eliminate any pain.  Local anaesthetic blocks pain, but mechanical forces are sometimes vaguely felt.

After the tooth is removed, a pack is used to apply pressure to the tooth socket to stop any bleeding.  After tooth extraction, we advise you not to rinse your mouth and avoid strenuous activity.  Smoking is to also to be avoided for at least 24 hours as it impairs wound healing.  We advise you to use hot-water mouth baths which normally start 24 hours after the extraction.

Tooth Extraction | Suitable candidates for tooth extraction

If your tooth is;

  1. Unsalvageable
  2. Cracked down to the root
  3. Too crowded
  4. Infected
  5. Not useful (wisdom teeth primarily)

Then you would be a suitable candidate for tooth extraction.

Tooth Extraction | What are the alternatives?

There are few alternatives if you require tooth extraction, however depending on your circumstance, your dentist may suggest a root canal treatment instead so that you do not lose your full tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I brush my teeth after an extraction?

Don't brush your teeth on the day of surgery. The day after you've had your surgery, you can brush your teeth, but avoid brushing near the surgical site for up to 3 days. Rinse with half a cup of warm water and a pinch of salt beginning 3 days after surgery.

How long will my mouth be sore after extraction?

The following will help speed recovery:

  1. Take the painkillers which your dentist prescribes for you.
  2. After 24 hours rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day. This reduces swelling and relieves pain.
  3. Make sure you change your gauze pads before they become soaked with blood.
  4. Relax after surgery. ...
  5. Avoid smoking.