Tooth Extraction, Harrow London
The Process of Having a Tooth Pulled
We understand that a tooth extraction might sound daunting for some patients, leading them to put with a toothache and avoid getting help from local dentists like us.
But we’re here to tell you that you don’t have to put up with the pain or the thought of having a gap in your mouth forever.
Here at Aqua Dental in Harrow, London, we make tooth extractions easy – our techniques in sedation dentistry and the relaxation therapies we apply help our patients relax and proceed with their tooth removal without pain or anxiety.
Why do teeth need to be removed?
Even though permanent adult teeth are supposed to last a lifetime, several instances and reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted.
Most commonly, teeth that we pull are in poor condition or have experienced heavy damage from trauma or decay and are beyond repair.
However, other reasons include:
- Crowded or crooked smiles with poor alignment and too many teeth for the mouth to fit. Or due to impacted wisdom teeth.
- The tooth has been infected (pulpitis), and other treatments are ineffective.
- When your immune system is at risk of infection.
- Gum disease, abscesses or broken teeth.
- To provide leading missing tooth solution; dental implants.
What happens when the tooth has been pulled?
The procedure itself is not in any way painful.
However, following the removal, you may feel slight discomfort and become oddly aware of the gap in your mouth.
A blood clot will begin to form in the socket when the tooth has been pulled.
One of our dentists will pack a gauze pad into this area for you to bite down on to stop the bleeding – however, when you remove the gauze, do not be tempted to roll your tongue through the gap so you don’t dislodge the clot.
The dentist will provide you with post-extraction instructions such as what to eat and what not to do to prohibit healing.
What to expect during a tooth extraction
Our general dentists and oral surgeons perform a tooth extraction, but not until we rule out all the possible solutions to save your natural tooth.
However, following your wishes and if every possible avenue has been exhausted, we will begin to prepare you for a tooth removal.
Often performed under local anaesthetic, the entire area of the mouth will be numbed and the tooth removed.
For nervous patients, we have the option of conscious sedation.
Tooth extraction recovery
How long you recover after a tooth extraction depends on the complexity of your case.
However, it is most common for people to get back to normal in just a few days (48-72 hours after).
Is there any pain after a tooth extraction?
Our patients record little to no pain when the tooth is being pulled; a slight bit of pressure is felt, with things looking much scarier than it actually is.
The most discomfort can be felt when the anaesthesia wears off, but again, this is nothing that’s not easily managed by over the counter medications.
Replacing removed teeth
These days, we don’t have to extract a tooth and leave you with an unsightly gap.
Dentistry has advanced so much that we can now offer world-class tooth replacement solutions such as dental implants, which function and look just like natural teeth.
Tooth loss and gaps in the mouth are not something we, as restorative dentists would recommend ignoring.
Bone can begin to deplete in areas of the mouth, where the tooth was lost, which can lead to other teeth shifting out of place, facial sagging, gum disease and even further tooth loss.
That’s why we like to do everything we can here to save your natural tooth, but we appreciate that in some instances of heavy decay and trauma that this cannot always be done.
So dental implants would be a great solution after a tooth has been removed.
Other tooth replacement methods include dental bridges (implant-supported), or dentures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an extraction?
An extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the bone. This is commonly performed when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed and cannot be saved through other dental treatments.
Why is extraction necessary?
There are several reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary. These include severe tooth decay, advanced gum disease, tooth infection, overcrowding of teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, or preparation for orthodontic treatment.
What is oral surgery?
Oral surgery refers to any surgical procedure performed in the mouth. This can include tooth extractions, dental implant placement, removal of impacted teeth, treatment of oral diseases, and jaw surgery.
Does extraction hurt?
The extraction procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. You may feel some pressure during the procedure, but you should not experience any pain. After the procedure, mild discomfort and swelling can occur, but your dentist will provide appropriate pain relief medications.
How long does the extraction process take?
The duration of a tooth extraction can vary depending on the complexity of the case. Simple extractions may be completed in just a few minutes, while more complex cases involving impacted teeth or multiple extractions may take longer.
How long does it take to recover from an extraction?
The recovery period can vary from person to person. Generally, it may take a few days to a week to recover fully. During this time, it is important to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions, including proper oral hygiene practices and avoiding certain foods that may irritate the extraction site.
Will I be able to eat normally after an extraction?
In the initial days after an extraction, it is recommended to stick to soft foods to prevent any irritation or injury to the extraction site. As the healing progresses, you can gradually introduce solid foods back into your diet.
Can I replace the extracted tooth?
There are several options to replace an extracted tooth, including dental implants, bridges, and dentures. Your dentist will discuss these options with you and recommend the most suitable one based on your individual needs and preferences.
Are there any risks or complications associated with extractions?
Like any surgical procedure, tooth extractions carry some risks. The most common complications include dry socket (a painful condition where the blood clot does not form or dislodges after extraction), infection, damage to surrounding teeth or tissues, and excessive bleeding. However, these complications are rare and can be minimised by following your dentist’s post-operative instructions.
Can I drive home after an extraction?
If you undergo a simple extraction with local anesthesia, you should be able to drive home afterwards. However, if you receive sedation or general anesthesia, it is necessary to have someone accompany you and drive you home, as the effects of the anesthesia may impair your ability to drive safely.
Is it necessary to remove all wisdom teeth?
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. If the wisdom teeth are healthy, properly positioned, and have enough space to erupt and be cleaned adequately, they may not require extraction. Your dentist will assess your specific case and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
How soon can I resume my regular activities after an extraction?
It is advisable to take it easy for the first 24 hours after an extraction. Avoid any strenuous activities, exercise, or heavy lifting during this time. After this initial period, you can gradually resume your regular activities, taking care not to disturb the extraction site.
Can I prevent the need for extractions?
Maintaining proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, can help prevent dental issues that may require extractions. Additionally, addressing dental problems promptly can also help prevent the need for extractions in some cases.