At StormDental in Dreghorn, we always aim to preserve your natural teeth wherever possible. However, in some cases, removing a tooth is the best option to protect your overall oral health and relieve pain.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?
Tooth extraction is typically recommended when a tooth cannot be saved or is causing problems for your oral health. Common reasons include:
- Severe tooth decay that cannot be restored
- Advanced gum disease affecting tooth support
- Dental infection or abscess
- A broken or damaged tooth beyond repair
- Overcrowding or preparation for orthodontic treatment
- Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth
Before recommending extraction, we will always carry out a thorough assessment and discuss all possible alternatives with you.
Types of Tooth Extraction
At StormDental, we provide different types of extractions depending on your needs:
Simple Extraction
This is performed on a tooth using professional techniques and local anaesthetic.
Surgical Extraction
If a tooth is impacted, broken below the gumline, or more complex to remove, a surgical approach may be required. This is still carried out with your comfort as a top priority.
What to Expect During the Procedure
We understand that many patients feel anxious about having a tooth removed. Our friendly team will take the time to explain every step and ensure you feel at ease.
1. Consultation and Planning
We examine your tooth, take any necessary X-rays, and discuss the procedure in detail.
2. Numbing the Area
A local anaesthetic is used to fully numb the area, so you should not feel pain during the extraction.
3. Tooth Removal
The tooth is carefully loosened and removed using specialised instruments. We work slowly to minimise discomfort.
4. Aftercare Guidance
Once the procedure is complete, we provide clear instructions to help you heal quickly and comfortably.
Does Tooth Extraction Hurt?
Thanks to modern techniques and effective local anaesthetic, tooth extraction is typically pain-free. You may feel some pressure during the procedure, but not pain.
After the extraction, it is normal to experience mild discomfort or swelling for a few days. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and following our aftercare advice.
Recovery After a Tooth Extraction
Healing after a tooth extraction is usually straightforward, especially when you follow the guidance provided by our team. Key aftercare tips include:
- Bite gently on gauze to help stop bleeding
- Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours
- Eat soft foods and avoid hot drinks initially
- Avoid smoking and alcohol during healing
- Keep the area clean by maintaining good oral hygiene
Most patients recover within a few days, although complete healing of the area may take a little longer.
