Tooth extraction
A tooth may need to be extracted for several reasons
Sometimes a tooth can no longer be saved with a filling, root canal treatment, or other treatment methods. In such cases, tooth extraction may be the best solution for both oral and overall health.
The most common reasons for tooth extraction are advanced tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or severe gum disease, also known as periodontitis. A tooth may also need to be extracted when inflammation has caused extensive damage to the tooth and the prognosis for conservative treatment, such as root canal therapy, is no longer favorable. If a crack in the tooth extends below the gum line, the tooth often has to be extracted.
Tooth extraction may also be necessary as part of orthodontic treatment due to severe crowding, or when a wisdom tooth causes recurrent inflammation, pain, or damage to adjacent teeth.
If you already know you need a tooth extraction, select the following option from our appointment calendar: “Office visit (e.g., 2–3 fillings or start of root canal treatment), up to 45 minutes.”
Experiences with tooth extraction
How is a tooth extraction performed?
Tooth extraction is performed under local anesthesia. Thanks to the anesthesia, the procedure itself is usually painless, although you may feel some pressure or movement during the procedure, and it may sound a bit strange.
First, the tooth is detached from the surrounding tissues using special instruments. The tooth is then carefully removed from the tooth socket. Finally, care is taken to ensure that a normal blood clot forms in the area, which initiates the healing process.
Many teeth can be removed through routine extractions, but sometimes surgical tooth extraction is necessary.
What does surgical tooth extraction mean?
Surgical tooth extraction is necessary, for example, when a tooth is broken, the roots are in an awkward position, or the tooth has not erupted normally into the mouth.
During surgical extraction, the gum may be incised and, if necessary, a small amount of bone around the tooth may be removed. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia in the same way as a routine tooth extraction. Stitches are often placed in the area to help the wound heal.
We also perform complex and surgical tooth extractions at our clinic. Some extractions are performed by a general dentist, while the most complex ones are performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom teeth do not always erupt normally in the mouth. A partially erupted or completely unerupted wisdom tooth can cause inflammation, pain, swelling, or damage to adjacent teeth.
In such situations, having a wisdom tooth removed can prevent recurring problems and provide permanent relief from symptoms. However, wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed.
What happens after a tooth is extracted?
After removal, a blood clot forms in the area, which protects the wound and promotes healing. The area may be tender for a few days, and mild swelling is normal, especially after surgical removal.
Most patients return to their normal daily routine as early as the next day. During the healing process, it is important to follow the home care instructions provided to ensure that the wound heals as well as possible. You should also avoid brushing the incision site too vigorously, so as not to dislodge the blood clot.
Does a tooth that has been extracted need to be replaced?
In many cases, yes. In particular, the loss of a molar can, over time, affect your bite and the alignment of your other teeth.
To replace a missing tooth, options include an implant, a dental bridge, or a denture. Your dentist will work with you to determine whether replacement is necessary in your specific situation.
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Tooth Extraction – Frequently Asked Questions
If the tooth can still be saved, root canal treatment may be an alternative to extraction. During the examination, the dentist will assess whether it is possible to save the tooth and whether doing so is medically advisable.
Please contact us if the pain worsens after several days, the bleeding does not stop, the swelling gets significantly worse, or you develop a fever. These symptoms may indicate a post-operative infection or another condition that requires treatment.
Tooth extraction is considered when a tooth can no longer be saved through treatments such as fillings, root canal therapy, or a crown. Other reasons may include severe periodontitis, a fractured tooth, or a problematic wisdom tooth.
The extraction of the tooth itself is usually painless, as the procedure is performed under effective local anesthesia. During the procedure, you may feel some pressure or movement, but you generally won't feel any actual pain.
A routine tooth extraction usually takes about 15–30 minutes. More complex or surgical extractions may take longer, about 45–60 minutes.
During the first 24 hours, it’s best to stick to soft, lukewarm foods. It’s a good idea to avoid hot drinks, alcohol, and foods that are very hard or crumbly during the early stages of healing.
Mild pain and swelling are common during the first few days. The symptoms are usually at their worst 1–3 days later and begin to subside after that.
You should avoid strenuous physical activity for at least the first 24 hours. After a surgical tooth extraction, a slightly longer break from physical activity may be recommended.
Smoking impairs blood circulation and significantly increases the risk of postoperative bleeding and what is known as a “dry socket.” You should avoid smoking for at least several days after the procedure.
A dry socket refers to a situation in which the blood clot that has formed in the extraction socket dislodges too early. In this case, the wound may become very painful a few days after the extraction. The condition is treatable, but to prevent it, it is important to follow the home care instructions carefully.
Not necessarily. Wisdom teeth are usually removed when they cause symptoms, inflammation, pain, or pose a risk to adjacent teeth. Asymptomatic wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed.
Most people return to work or school as usual on the same day or the next day. After extensive surgical tooth extraction, a short recovery period may sometimes be necessary.