Dental Extraction

Once a tooth extraction is deemed necessary, your dentist will go through your medical history with you. This is standard procedure to be aware of any possible complications. X-rays will be taken of your mouth to have an in-depth look at the position and shape of the tooth in question. Your dentist will also need to look at your tooth’s proximity to facial nerves and your jawbone. Once this is complete you are ready for your extraction.

If the dentist feels your case is complicated, they will refer you to an oral surgeon.

Tooth extraction is usually performed under local anaesthetic. If your dental extraction is complicated, a general anaesthetic may be required. Your dentist will advise you on this. After the area has been numbed your dentist will use a special tool to loosen the tooth before removing it. You shouldn’t feel any pain, just a little bit of pressure.

You may require a few dissolvable stitches. Your dentist will make sure the area is clean before placing some gauze over the wound to help stop any bleeding. Over the next 8 to 12 hours the bleeding will clot which helps to protect the underlying tissue and bone and aids recovery

After your extraction is complete, you will be able to go home. Your mouth and lip may feel numb. The anaesthetic will wear off after a few hours. Once it has worn off you may experience some pain, but your dentist will either write a script for pain medication or recommend over the counter painkillers.

It is recommended that you don’t eat solid foods for the first day or two post treatment. You may also want to chew on the unaffected side of your mouth. Your dentist will advise you to rest up and avoid any physical exercise for the first 24hrs. The wound will take around 1 to 2 weeks to heal.

It is important that you contact your dentist if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain or fever.