Treatment at a Glance
Treatment Type
Anaesthetic
Pre-Treatment Care
Recovery Time
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. At Blackhills Dental Clinic, we will always try our best to save your natural tooth, but if your tooth is too badly damaged, broken, decayed or infected to repair, removing it may be the best option.
Tooth extraction stops more serious dental problems from occurring down the line, such as severe pain or infections.
The Treatment Process
Examination & Planning
Before extraction, your dentist will firstly assess the tooth and its surrounding area. They will take X-Rays to check the root shape, bone levels and nerve positions. This will help the dentist to determine whether the extraction will be simple, where the tooth is visible above the gum, or surgical, where the tooth is broken or impacted.
Extraction Procedure
The dentist will begin the procedure by numbing the area with a local anesthesia. If it is a simple extraction and the tooth is visible above the gum, the dentist will lift the tooth out of the socket. Whereas if it is a surgical extraction, the dentist will make a small incision to open the gum, giving them access to the tooth. The tooth will be divided into sections and carefully removed one piece at a time. Once the tooth has been fully removed, stitches will be placed.
Post-Extraction
Immediately after the extraction the dentist will place a gauze over the socket, which will help to control any bleeding and prevent a blood clot from forming.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
1. Does tooth extraction hurt?
Local anaesthetic is used prior to the procedure so you will not experience any pain during the extraction as the area around the tooth will be numbed. Although you will experience mild to moderate soreness and swelling for 3 to 5 days following the extraction. This can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
2. How long does an extraction take?
Simple extractions take 10 to 30 minutes on average, wherares surgical extractions can take up to an hour to complete.
3. How long does swelling last after a tooth extraction?
You will experience mild to moderate swellinging for 48 to 72 hours after surgery, but this should last no more than 3 to 5 days. Swelling can be calmed by placing ice packs onto the area.
4. Will I need to replace the tooth that has been extracted?
It is sometime recommended to replace the extracted tooth, especially if it was used for chewing. Replacement options include an implant, bridge or denture.
5. What can I eat after an extraction?
It is important that you stick to soft foods, such as yoghurts, soup, and smoothies, within the first 48 hours of getting a tooth extracted as to not impact the stitches. You should also avoid eating crunchy, hard food and using a straw for a few days as this can cause dry socket.
6. What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?
Dry socket is uncommon but can occur when the protective blood clot comes out too early. It is important to follow the aftercare instructions that you have been provided with.
7. When can I go back to work or school?
You can return to light activities 1 to 2 days after the extraction, although it does depend on how difficult the extraction was. It is recommended that you avoid more strenuous activities for 3 to 5 days after the extraction.
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Contact Information
5 Maidenplain Place, Aberuthven, Perthshire, PH3 1EL
8:30am to 5pm | Mon – Fri
01764 66 44 46