Teeth Extraction (Removal)

Why Do I Need to Have a Tooth Removed?

There are many reasons why you may need to have a tooth removed, such as tooth decay, gum disease and trauma.

Are There Any Alternatives to Removing a Tooth?

Simple painkillers such as paracetamol can help control mild pain and antibiotics can help with infection.

Sometimes root-canal treatment will help to treat infection and pain.

Depending on how damaged your tooth is, your dentist may be able to rebuild it with a filling or crown.

The Procedure

What Does Teeth Extraction (Removal) Involve?

Most teeth are removed under a local anaesthetic that is injected around your tooth to numb it. However, removing a tooth can sometimes be difficult. The operation can take up to 40 minutes.

Your surgeon will loosen and remove your tooth with instruments (see figure 1).

Sometimes removing a tooth can involve cutting the gum to uncover your tooth, removing bone around your tooth and dividing your tooth with a drill.

What Complications Can Happen?

Pain
Bleeding
Swelling and bruising
Infection
Dry socket
Retained roots
Damage to nearby teeth
Sinus problems
Broken jaw
Not being able to open your mouth fully (trismus) and jaw stiffness
Damage to nerves
Bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of your jaw

Following Surgery

How Soon Will I Recover?

After the oral and maxillofacial surgery, your surgeon will make sure that any bleeding has stopped. You should be able to go home the same day.

Try to leave the wound alone for one to two days. Then rinse your mouth gently with hot, salty water four times a day for the next two days.

To reduce the risk of swelling and bruising, do not exercise, drink alcohol or have a hot bath for one to two weeks. You may need to take up to a week off work.

Most people make a full recovery.

Summary

Teeth can sometimes cause serious problems. Removing a tooth is usually a safe and effective way to prevent your symptoms from coming back.

To enquire about Teeth Extraction (Removal) at New Victoria Hospital, call 020 8949 9020 or fill out our contact form.

Acknowledgements

Author: Mr Andrew Sidebottom FDSRCS FRCS

Illustrations: Hannah Ravenscroft RM

The operation and treatment information on this website is published under license by New Victoria Hospital from EIDO Healthcare UK and is protected by copyright laws. Other than for your personal, non-commercial use, you may not copy, print out, download or otherwise reproduce any of the information. The information should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.