If there is no other option…

Generally we will only suggest extraction of a tooth if there is no other feasible option available. Tooth extraction cannot be reversed and we will discuss with you the pros and cons prior to any treatment. Fortunately there are replacement options if your tooth does need extracting, including implants, bridges or dentures.

The instances where tooth extraction may be recommended include:

• tooth is unrestorable
• other treatment options are likely to fail
• extraction due to end stage periodontal disease
• orthodontics, on request of the treating orthodontist
• removal of impacted wisdom teeth
• extraction of baby teeth if still present after the eruption of the adult tooth

Will I experience any pain?

After making the decision to extract a tooth, a local anaesthetic will first be given to numb the area. At this stage, your dentist will check to make sure the tooth is properly numb. While extracting the tooth, you shouldn’t feel any pain, but you will feel some pushing and pressure. If you do experience any discomfort, your dentist will administer more local anaesthetic to improve your comfort. If you feel nervous or anxious about the procedure, please advise your dentist. There are sometimes medications that we can prescribe to help ease anxiety and there is always the option of having teeth extracted under general anaesthetic.

Once the tooth has been removed, your dentist will make sure that the bleeding has stopped prior to letting you leave. We will also give you instructions on how to care for your mouth following the extraction, including advice on:

• pain relief
• rinsing with salty water
• avoiding the area while eating
• avoiding smoking
• how to manage recurrent bleeding

Wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth usually erupt into the mouth between 17-22 years of age. They can erupt without problem but often they will only erupt partly or grow in the wrong direction. A few concerns about wisdom teeth are listed below:

• Pericoronitis is a painful gum infection and is one of the most common reasons for extracting wisdom teeth. Pericoronitis can be treated with appropriate cleaning measures and antibiotics but often the long term solution is extraction
• Wisdom teeth can be very difficult to clean and develop decay quickly. Sometimes these teeth can be filled but if a wisdom tooth develops decay once, then there is a good chance it will happen again. Your dentist will advise whether this tooth can be filled or whether it is best that the tooth be extracted

Some studies report that retaining your wisdom teeth following orthodontics can affect the result as they try to erupt. Discuss with your dentist regarding extracting or retaining these teeth.

If a wisdom tooth is to be extracted, your dentist will best advise whether this can be done in the dental chair or whether a general anaesthetic is better for you. There are some risks involved in extracting wisdom teeth and your dentist will discuss these with you prior to any treatment.