Although preserving a natural tooth is generally preferable whenever it can be predictably restored, there are circumstances where tooth removal may be the most appropriate treatment.
A tooth may need to be extracted because of extensive decay, a severe fracture, advanced gum disease, infection or because there is insufficient healthy tooth remaining to restore it successfully.
Do I need to have my tooth removed?
The decision to remove a tooth should follow a careful assessment. Where appropriate, Dr Ali will discuss whether there are reasonable alternatives that could allow the tooth to be retained.
Removal may be recommended when a tooth is:
- extensively decayed or broken beyond predictable restoration
- repeatedly infected
- affected by advanced periodontal (gum) disease
- fractured below the gum
- impacted or unable to erupt normally
- causing problems for a neighbouring tooth
- being removed as part of another planned dental treatment.
What happens during a tooth extraction?
The area around the tooth is thoroughly numbed using local anaesthetic before treatment begins.
During a routine extraction, the tooth is carefully loosened from the tissues supporting it before being removed from its socket. More complex teeth may require a surgical extraction, particularly if the tooth is broken beneath the gum, impacted or has difficult root anatomy.
Dr Ali will assess the tooth and relevant X-rays beforehand and explain the anticipated procedure.
What should I expect afterwards?
Some bleeding, tenderness and swelling can be expected after a dental extraction. You will receive instructions explaining how to look after the extraction site, maintain oral hygiene and manage the early stages of healing.
If removal leaves a space that would benefit from replacement, options such as a dental implant, bridge or denture can also be discussed.
