Why are teeth removed?
Tooth extraction is rarely the first line of treatment. In modern dentistry, every effort is made to preserve the natural tooth wherever possible – through restoration, root canal therapy or stabilisation. But there are cases where keeping the tooth poses a greater risk than just removing it. In those instances, extraction is necessary.
The most common reason is extensive tooth decay. When the damage has reached a point where the tooth is structurally unsalvagable – either because it extends into the root, or because it compromises the surrounding bone – removal may be the only clinically sound option. Infection is another frequent reason for tooth extraction. If bacteria have reached the pulp or root and cannot be adequately resolved with root canal treatment, leaving the tooth in place risks further spread and long-term complications.
Teeth may also need to be extracted as a result of advanced gum disease. Periodontal deterioration can cause the ligaments and bone that support the tooth to erode, leaving it loose and unstable. In such cases, the extraction is often part of a broader treatment plan to arrest disease progression and protect adjacent structures.
Not all extractions are reactive, though. Some are preventative – removing impacted wisdom teeth before they cause damage, or extracting specific teeth to create space in advance of orthodontic treatment. Others are part of prosthetic planning – ensuring the mouth is properly prepared for implants, dentures, braces or bridges.
At MyHealthcare Clinic, extraction is never our first option. Our experienced dentists assess each case on its individual merits, with diagnostic imaging, clinical history and patient goals considered in full. If extraction is the right step, we explain exactly why – and what comes next. That may include replacement options such as implants or prosthetic restorations, as part of longer-term plans to restore comfort, health and function.
What to expect before your tooth extraction appointment
The first step in any extraction is diagnosis – not just confirming which tooth is causing the problem, but understanding why removal is being recommended. At MyHealthcare Clinic, this is never rushed, and we take time to investigate the full picture, using diagnostic imaging and detailed examination to assess whether the tooth can be preserved, and if not, the safest and most appropriate next step.
If extraction is recommended, your dentist will explain the critical reasoning clearly, walk you through the procedure and answer any questions you may have, including what happens after. You’ll also be told whether the tooth can be removed with a simple technique under local anaesthetic, or whether a surgical approach is needed. If sedation is an option, this will also be discussed.
Some patients attend their appointment knowing they’ll be having a tooth removed that day. Others attend for consultation and imaging first, with treatment scheduled once any relevant medical factors have been reviewed.
There are a number of things that could affect the timing or approach of your tooth extraction:
- If you’re taking blood-thinning medicine
- If you’re taking immunosuppressants
- If you’re managing a chronic health condition
You’ll be asked about your medical history and any medication you’re taking to ensure the procedure is carried out safely.
If IV sedation is planned you may be asked to fast beforehand and for someone to accompany you home. For all patients, we would recommend setting aside time to rest afterwards – ideally taking the rest of the day off work, avoiding strenuous activity and making sure you have soft foods and pain relief ready at home.
Patients often arrive for a tooth extraction feeling anxious – this is normal. Being properly prepared and knowing what to expect can make a significant difference to your confidence on the day. We’ll ensure you’re equipped with everything you need – not just clinically, but emotionally – to approach your appointment calmly, and with clarity.
The procedure – step by step
Once you’ve discussed the treatment plan and given informed consent, the extraction procedure follows a structured, controlled sequence. Each stage is led by experienced dentists, and is designed to maximise your comfort and safety.
Anaesthesia and preparation
Your dentist will begin by numbing the area with local anaesthetic. Often a topical gel is applied first to minimise the needle sensation. If sedation is part of your plan, it is administered before proceeding. Thai may include oral or IV sedation for relaxation or to support more complex surgical extractions.
Tooth access and mobilisation
For a simple extraction, specialised tools such as elevators or forceps are used to apply gentle pressure and loosen the tooth out of its socket. In surgical cases – often required for impacted or broken teeth – the dentist may make small incisions or section the tooth for careful removal.
Socket management and additional procedures
Once the tooth is removed, the socket is cleaned and disinfected. If you’re planning an implant or worried about future bone loss, we may offer socket preservation – placing a graft material in the socket to help maintain the bone structure. Sutures may be placed to help with healing – sometimes these dissolve naturally or sometimes they may need to be removed.
Immediate recovery phase
Shortly after the procedure we’ll ask you to bit gently on a gauze pad to promote clot formation – 30 – 45 minutes is usually enough. A cold compress may be applied externally to reduce swelling in the initial hours. Most patients remain in the clinic for a brief observation period while sedation wears off.
Follow-up and discharge
You’ll then receive detailed aftercare guidance – what to eat, rest instructions, pain relief options and how to monitor healing. Before you leave, we’ll confirm a post-op check-in (usually within a few days) to review your recovery.
Aftercare – what to do and what not to do
Once your tooth has been extracted, proper aftercare is essential to ensure smooth healing, avoid complications and help you return to comfort as quickly as possible.
Within the first 30 minutes, avoid spitting, rinsing or using straws, as these actions can dislodge the clot and risk a painful dry socket. You should apply your cold compress externally to your cheek in cycles of 20 minutes off and on to reduce swelling. If gentle compression is advised by your dentist, we’ll show you the proper technique to use. In the first 24 hours, you should rest with your head elevated and refrain from strenuous activity or heavy lifting. Elevated blood pressure can increase the risk of bleeding.
After the extraction day, you should gradually reintroduce some gentler routines:
From 24 hours onwards you can begin gentle saltwater rinses four times a day and after meals to keep the site clean – rinse gently, leaning your head so water flows over the extraction site without vigorous swishing.
Continue brushing and flossing as normal, but avoid direct contact with the healing socket until tissue has closed. If sutures were placed, our dentist will tell you whether they are dissolvable or whether you will need to come back to have them removed.
Diet and hydration are very important – start with cool, soft foods such as yoghurt, mashed vegetables and eggs. Avoid hot, crunchy, spicy or fizzy foods and all alcohol until you have started to heal. Smoking or vaping should be postponed for at least 48 hours to reduce the risk of delayed healing or dry socket.
Managing pain and swelling can usually be done through over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Your dentist might prescribe stronger medicines if needed, especially if you’ve had a surgical extraction. If you’ve been prescribed antibiotics, you must take them exactly as instructed.
Risks and complications
Most extractions done at MyHealthcare Cliinic are straightforward and trouble-free – but it’s important to be aware of potential risks so you’re fully prepared. It’s normal to experience mild discomfort, swelling and slight bleeding in the days that follow your extraction. These effects are part of the body’s healing response, and usually resolve themselves within a few days with proper care.
However there are some additional risks you should be aware of. Our dentist will explain all of these to you following your extraction – how to identify them and when to come back in to see us.
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis)
When the protective blood clot that forms in the socket becomes dislodged or fails to form properly, the underlying bone is exposed, causing sharp pain that often begins around the third day after your extraction. At MyHealthcare Clinic we actively prevent dry socket by educating you on clot care and a structured aftercare plan. If it does occur, gentle flushing and medicated dressings can usually resolve it quickly.
Infection
Although rare, any open surgical site can be vulnerable to bacterial infection. We reduce this risk by operating in a sterile environment, prescribing antibiotics where necessary and reinforcing through oral hygiene. If redness, swelling, fever or discharge appear, we can offer fast-track reexamination and treatment.
Bleeding or delayed clotting
Some patients (particularly those on anticoagulants or with clotting disorders) may experience prolonged bleeding. Before treatment, we’ll discuss medicine use with you and may coordinate with your doctor to adjust timing safely. Immediate bleeding is usually managed well in-clinic – persistent bleeding usually means we need to see you again.
Nerve or sinus involvement
If you’ve had an extraction of lower wisdom teeth, this can carry a small risk of touching the nerve that supplies sensation to the lip or chin, which may cause temporary tingling or numbness. Upper molars, close to the sinus, require careful technique to avoid creating a communication. Our advanced imaging and surgical planning help us anticipate and prevent these events.
Delayed healing
Healing may take longer for patients who smoke, have diabetes or chronic conditions or take certain medications. We can schedule follow-up visits and offer personalised aftercare instructions to support the recovery process. If healing does not proceed as expected, we intervene early to prevent complications.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Will having a tooth extracted hurt?
Generally, no. We ensure that the treatment area is fully numb using local anaesthetic, usually topped with a gel to minimise any discomfort from needles. If sedation is part of your treatment plan, it will be administered before the extraction begins, ensuring you remain pain-free. You may feel pressure during the procedure, but you should not feel pain.
How long does the extraction take and when can I get back to normal?
Most extractions, including straightforward surgical cases, are completed within 20 – 40 minutes. Once the procedure is finished, we provide immediate post-op care and instructions. You’ll be instructed to rest for the remainder of the day and can resume normal daily activities, such as emails or light work, within 24 – 48 hours. Physical activity and exercise should be postponed for 3-5 days depending on how complex your procedure was.
How long does it take to heal and when can I eat normally again?
Soft tissue will typically heal within 1 – 2 weeks. Bone takes longer – up to 6 – 12 weeks, as it remodels under the healing gum. You may begin soft foods a few hours post-extraction (once the numbness has worn off) and transition gradually as your comfort allows. A return to a normal diet usually takes 3 to 5 days.
When should I contact the clinic?
If you experience unmanageable pain after day 2, uncontrolled bleeding, swelling after 3 – 4 days, fever, pus or numbness that lasts beyond 12 hours, get back in touch with us immediately. You’ll receive follow-up care with the same dentist who performed your extraction.
Are there any ways to reduce complications?
Yes. Some of the most effective ways to prevent complications are:
- Avoiding straws, vigorous rinsing or mouthwash
- Avoiding smoking or vaping for at least 48 hours
- Avoiding alcohol or strenuous activity
- Avoiding hard, crunchy or spicy foods during early healing