DENTAL EXTRACTIONS
1. What is a dental extraction?
A dental extraction is a surgical procedure to permanently remove a tooth.
2. When is a dental extraction carried out?
A dental extraction is often carried out following an episode of pain or infection associated with a tooth. An extraction may be needed because a tooth is unhealthy, or if a tooth that cannot be saved by an alternative treatment such as root canal treatment. Some teeth, such as wisdom teeth, are removed because they may not fully develop into your mouth in a way that allows maintenance of good oral hygiene. Teeth are also removed if they cause recurrent infections that cannot be prevented, for example due to the position of the tooth or as a result of gum disease. This is often the case with wisdom teeth.
3. Why has my Orthodontist asked for teeth to be removed?
We will often carry out extractions as part of an orthodontic treatment plan. An Orthodontist may request a tooth or several teeth are removed to allow remaining teeth to be moved into a desired position. Removing teeth as part of this plan is usually to create space within the mouth for further orthodontic treatment to be completed.
4. What should I expect when having lower wisdom teeth taken out?
Lower wisdom teeth are often impacted and may have grown into the neighbouring tooth. They may need to be divided into small parts to help to remove the entire tooth. Lower wisdom teeth often sit near a nerve that provides sensation to the lower lip, the chin and parts of the tongue or taste. Sometimes the sensation to these areas can be affected following lower wisdom tooth removal. You will be informed of this prior to your procedure if it is relevant to your treatment.
5. How is a dental extraction carried out?
A dental extraction is usually completed under local anaesthetic where the gum immediately surrounding the tooth is made numb with an anaesthetic gel or an injection. This can safely be completed within the dental surgery. The treatment will usually take between 20-30 minutes unless you are advised otherwise. You will be awake during your treatment but you should not feel any pain or discomfort once the local anaesthetic has been placed. As the extraction is completed under a local anaesthetic, you will be aware of pressure and pulling sensations during treatment.
6. What can I expect after a dental extraction is completed?
Once a dental extraction is completed, you will be able to leave and continue with your day as usual. Sometimes, dissolving stitches are placed that may last
between 1-4 weeks. These will not require removal. The site may be sore, swollen, and tender for 5-7 days after the treatment. You may notice some blood spotting of your saliva for 24-48 hours after the treatment is complete, this is normal and not of any concern. You will be given specific aftercare instructions on the day of treatment.
7. Do I have to be awake to have a dental extraction?
Many thousands of dental extractions are routinely completed under local anaesthetic annually. This is often the safest and quickest way to have a tooth removed. If you feel anxious regarding this treatment, please discuss with your Dentist what alternative options may be available to help with any anxiety.
8. What other treatment may be needed?
Following the initial healing of the extraction site within 1-2 weeks, it may take between 6-12 weeks for complete healing of the extraction site to occur. You may wish to have the space where the tooth once was replaced. This can be with a dental implant, a removable denture or a fixed bridge. Please discuss with your dentist the options available to you.
